'Mary Poppins Returns' Movie Review: Practically Perfect Perpetuation

Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns” stars Emily Blunt (“The Girl on the Train,” “Into the Woods”) as the practically-perfect nanny with unique magical skills who can turn a routine task into an unforgettable, fantastic adventure.

In this all new sequel, which has a fresh sensibility yet celebrates the spirit of the original, Mary Poppins is back to help the next generation of the Banks family find the joy and wonder missing in their lives after they experience a personal loss. The enigmatic nanny is joined by her friend Jack, played by Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”), an optimistic street lamplighter who helps bring light—and life—to the streets of London. “Mary Poppins Returns” is directed by Rob Marshall (“Into the Woods,” “Chicago”) and produced by Marshall, John DeLuca (“Into the Woods”) and Marc Platt (“La La Land”). The screenplay is by David Magee (“Life of Pi”) and the screen story is by Magee, Marshall & DeLuca based on The Mary Poppins Stories by PL Travers with music by Marc Shaiman (“Hairspray”) and songs by Shaiman and Scott Wittman (“Hairspray”). 

The first film released 54 years ago, making it one of the longest gaps between film sequels in cinematic history. The 1964 film was considered as Mr. Walt Disney's crowning live-action achievement after earning a Best Picture nomination - the only one in his lifetime. Plus, it features Julie Andrews in her unforgettable feature film debut.

The first film that starred Julie Andrews will always be an all-time classic. Plus it has some really great soundtrack, from "Chim Chim Cher-ee", "Feed the Birds" and my favorite "A Spoonful of Sugar". With these all in mind, it is hard to exceed or at least, meet the expectations set by the first. So it is quite challenging to make a follow-up to the 1964 classic. But Rob Marshall managed to create a sequel that is as fun and entertaining as the first.

Unlike the first film, the conflict in 'Mary Poppins Returns' is more economical in nature as the Banks family is now struggling financially. This sets up the events in the film as they try to find a way to save their family's home from being repossessed by the bank. The film has a more energetic and lively tone that matches the serious threat in the story. There's more humor here than the original film, making it more light and easy to take in.

Of course, the musical numbers are more extravagant than the first film. The scenes are more imaginative and colorful, thanks to the help of amazing CGI and production value. The songs were okay, but admittedly the music was the film's weakest point. But thanks to the fantastic performances of Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda, the magic of the movie never faded. Blunt's portrayal of Mary Poppins was the film's biggest strengths. She was perfect for the role and I couldn't think of any other actress that can fit into the character.

'Mary Poppins' (1964) may have better songs, but its sequel, 'Mary Poppins Returns' is more enjoyable and heartfelt than its predecessor. And Emily Blunt is that 'spoonful of sugar' that makes everything so much fun.

Rating: 10/ 10 • Verdict: Must Watch

Verdict: Must Watch • Highly Recommended • Entertaining • Tolerable • Boring • 

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'Bumblebee' Movie Review: The 'Transformer' Movie We Deserve

On the run in the year 1987, Bumblebee finds refuge in a junkyard in a small Californian beach town. Charlie (Hailee Steinfeld), on the cusp of turning 18 and trying to find her place in the world, discovers Bumblebee, battle-scarred and broken. When Charlie revives him, she quickly learns this is no ordinary, yellow VW bug.

I was never a fan of Michael Bay's Transformer film series. I couldn't get myself to accept the story of the films, featuring alien robots that transform into vehicles or aircrafts. I couldn't get pass the ludicrous plot of the films and kept asking myself, how can these alien robots turn into cars and talk with perfect American accent? These are the reasons why I never enjoyed watching any of the past 'Transformer' films.

Then, out of nowhere came 'Bumblebee'.

The film borrows heavily from beloved 80's classics (with 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' being the most obvious inspiration) that makes it feel so familiar yet so refreshing. Charlie was even wearing a denim jacket with the letters BFG printed on the back in one scene, an obvious reference to the 1982 novel by Roald Dahl entitled "The BFG (Big Friendly Giant)" about a girl who befriends a giant, which was adapted into film by Steven Spielberg (one of Bumblebee's executive producers) back in 2016. There are even scenes that echoes Stephen King's homicidal car 'Christine' (1983) and the Prom night of 'Carrie' (1976). The story is something we've seen many times before, with a kid (this time, an 18 year old in the form of singer actress Hailee Steinfeld) from Earth befriending an alien (here, an Autobot) and helping it fight from the bad guys around them. Yes, it is a tried-and-tested formula. And it works, thanks to the solid direction of Travis Knight (of 'Kubo and the Two Strings' which I am yet to see), the sentimental script from screenwriter Christina Hodson and the powerful performance of Hailee Steinfeld.

Hailee imbued her character Charlie with a bit of teenage angst and lots of emotional depth that we become so invested in her character. There were times when I couldn't help myself think if I'm really watching a Transformers film. Hailee's Charlie felt like someone straight out of a John Hughes film due her fully realized character. Speaking of which, I absolutely love the film's numerous references to 'The Breakfast Club' (one of my all-time favorites). All these 80s pop culture references (posters of Indiana Jones and 'The Thing' in Jorge Lendeborg's room), plus the perfectly matched soundtrack completes the film's nostalgic feels.

The film's action set pieces are also commendable, because compared to the massive battle scenes from Michael Bay's past films, the action scenes here are more effective and properly orchestrated. You can really feel the intensity of the scenes, from thrills of each car chase to the impact of each blow during the battle scenes between Bumblebee and the Decepticons. The threat here feels more grounded because of the story's small scale, and so the danger feels more real for the characters as we've become attached and invested to them already- rarity among sci-fi adventure flicks nowadays.

I did not expect this but Bumblebee is the Transformers movie we deserve. Believe it. The hype is real.
It's the best Transformer film yet. And definitely one of 2018's biggest surprises.

Rating: 10/ 10 • Verdict: Must Watch

Verdict: Must Watch • Highly Recommended • Entertaining • Tolerable • Boring • 

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MMFF 2018 Movie Review : "The Girl In The Orange Dress" is Slick, Sweet and Seriously Good

Anna, a conservative girl wakes up in bed in a 5-star hotel room with Rye, the biggest celebrity actor of the country and has no memory of how she got there. Now she has to avoid and escape the media and fans swarming outside the hotel, along with Cacai, her best friend who has given her whole life to loving Rye. 

The Girl in the Orange Dress ventures into a reverse-courtship -- getting to know and falling in love after a night of intoxication, into stereotypes and perceptions that break down walls, into friendships that know no bounds, and into love that withstands the price and baggage of fame. (Quantum Films)

This slick romcom from director Jay Abello boasts some believable performances from it's two leads, Jessy Mendiola and Jericho Rosales. Jericho plays Rye in a cool, calm and classy manner that perfectly matches Jessy's frantic and worrisome Anna. In addition to their great portrayal of their characters, the two leads are also oozing with chemistry on screen. Ria Atayde, Sheena Halili and  Hannah Ledesma did a good job of portraying Anna's close friends. Their subplot added more emotion to the story. I also enjoyed watching Juan Miguel Severo, Kai Cortez and Nico Antonio playing some media reporters hungry of  getting some scoop out of the two.

Director Jay Abello manages to create some really cute and romantic moments for the two that will make audiences giddy and delighted. The way that the story unfolded was really genius, with the main plot happening in a matter of the whole day. But what really surprised me was the fact that he was also able to turn this romance tale into an exciting and heart-pounding cat and mouse chase as Rye and Anna try to evade fans and reporters who are trying to catch up on them inside the hotel.

This MMFF entry has the complete formula for the perfect romcom. No wonder it's my favorite entry from this festival so far this year. It's slick, sweet and seriously good. Someone's catching up for the category of the best local romcom of 2018.

Rating: 10/ 10 • Verdict: Must Watch

Verdict: Must Watch • Highly Recommended • Entertaining • Tolerable • Boring • 

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MMFF 2018 Movie Review: "One Great Love" is Totally Unexpected

Enrico S. Quizon's One Great Love follows Zyra Paez played by Kim Chui, a woman who believes that love will complete her and will bring her joy. JC de Vera plays Carl Mauricio, Zyra's one great love. However, because of Carl's turbulent past, he unintentionally keeps hurting the woman he loves. Dennis Trillo is Ian Arcano, Zyra's dependable friend, who eventually falls in love with her. These three lives are intertwined in a story that reveals to us that like all human beings, we all seek for love, but everyone see it differently.

To be honest, I didn't really expected a lot from this film. And I thought this will just be like the typical romance drama film that we get in our theaters every year. The first half of the film was okay. There wasn't anything special nor intense that happened. The film seems like it's playing too safe.

But once the film reaches its second half, the film reveals a twist that I didn't see coming at all. The trailer was able to hide this twist and you'll only get to realize what kind of film you're watching once you're halfway through it. This surprise was quite shocking and effective. It's something you won't see coming from this year's festival. It manages to give the film some kick- the film suddenly became so interesting and exciting.

The film boasts incredible performances from its leads, particularly Kim Chui who surprised us with the unexpected turn of her character. JC De Vera was very effective in his role. But I rather not discuss about that part any further to avoid spoiling the film. Miles Ocampo was really fun to watch with her role. And for the first time, I admired Dennis Trillo in a movie. Though I've seen him before in many shows, this is the first time that I noticed his acting skills. The film was the perfect project for him because he was able to showcase his acting prowess here.

One Great Love manages to surpass my expectations with the unexpected outcome of its story. Kim Chui will surely surprise everyone with this film.

Rating: 8/ 10 • Verdict: Entertaining

Verdict: Must Watch • Highly Recommended • Entertaining • Tolerable • Boring • 

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"Ang Pangarap Kong Holdap" Movie Review : The Best Pinoy Comedy of 2018

Marius Talampas’ "Ang Pangarap kong Holdap" is one of the most refreshing local films of 2018. After dozens of romcoms flooding our cinema, this oddball comedy is a breath of fresh air.

The story is not your typical Pinoy comedy. It's more in the satirical nature as it follows a group of luckless dimwits on their journey to becoming the best thieves in their area. What makes this satirical comedy work is its commitment to its ludicrous concept. The film manages to create this alternate world where it's more acceptable to become a criminal than become an office employee (or a call center agent) for money. And it works. It fucking works.

Pepe Herrera, Paolo Contis, Jerald Napoles, and Jelson Bay all gave out amazing performances in the film. But it was Napoles that I really enjoyed the most. Maybe its the way his character was written. I don't know and I don't care. All I know is that I laughed so hard with his gags (especially that final scene).

To be honest, this movie is even way better than all the Vice Ganda blockbuster films we've had for the past two years. Marius Talampas’ "Ang Pangarap kong Holdap" is simply the best Pinoy comedy of 2018. Period.

Rating: 10/ 10 • Verdict: Must Watch

Verdict: Must Watch • Highly Recommended • Entertaining • Tolerable • Boring • 

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"Class Of 2018" Movie Review: The Kids Are Goin' Crazy In This Fun Teensploitation

T-Rex Entertainment brings together some of the country's favorite teen stars in one of the most highly anticipated local films this year. "Class Of 2018", directed by Charliebebs Gohetia, and co-written with Jericho Aguado, features "Goin' Bulilit" alumni Sharlene San Pedro, Nash Aguas ,Kristel Fulgar, CJ Navato and Kiray Celis. They are joined by T-Rex Artists Lara Fortuna and Aga Arceo, together with veteran actors like Yayo Aguila (Kiko Boksingero), Adrian Alandy, Dido dela Paz (Respeto) and Alex Medina (Babagwa, Heneral Luna). The film also stars Jomari Angeles (Ma' Rosa, Hintayan Ng Langit), Ethan Salvador (2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten, Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral), Michelle Vito, Kelvin Miranda, Nikki Gonzales, Shara Dizon, Hanna Francisco, Renshi de Guzman, Dylan Ray Talon (Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus), Micah Jackson, Jude Servilla (Bagyong Bheverlynn), John Vic De Guzman (Seklusyon), Yvette Sanchez, Jerom Canlas, Noubikko Ray and Sherry Lara.

"Class Of 2018" follows the students of Section Zamora, the section where Del Pilar National High School’s young misfits, losers, and delinquents usually end up in. Everyone knows that anyone in Section Z has no chance of a good future. When Section Z goes on a field trip to Mt. Bantayog for an Earth Science project, one of them contracts a mysterious virus. The infected student quickly develops disturbing symptoms, eventually driving him to attack the rest of his classmates. Out of nowhere, the military swoops in and quarantines the class in an abandoned facility somewhere deep in the forest to control the spreading of the virus. While inside the quarantine zone, everyone in Section Z is forced to fight for survival. Their issues with each other arise as quickly as the spreading of the mysterious virus, which heightens the infected’s aggression and thirst for violence. Believing that a proper future is waiting for them outside, the surviving students gear up to fight their infected classmates, who have transformed into mindless violent monsters. With the additional threat of the military who quarantined them for suspicious reasons, will the students make it out alive?

"Class Of 2018" doesn't really work as a horror film. It's more of a scifi thriller infused with some comedy. Imagine "The Maze Runner" meets "Battle Royale" with a Pinoy flavor. Its premise may not be new to us since we have seen many stories about experiments gone wrong in movies, but the script from Charliebebs Gohetia and Jericho Aguado manages to be interesting enough as they stuffed it with many twists and turns. Gohetia, who recently directed the Cinema One Originals comedy film "Bagyong Bheverlynn", infused the story with effective humor that creates a perfect balance between violence and laughs. The production values were okay, plus it has some nice visuals (despite some rough CGI), particularly the playful cinematography.

But the biggest aspect as to why the film works is because of its cast. It was so nostalgic to watch Sharlene San Pedro and Nash Aguas together since I have witnessed these two grow up from those cute little child actors back then to the teens that they are now. Their acting prowess were on full display of the film. NashLene fans will also get their money's worth because of their sweet little moments together. Kiray Celis was so fun to watch as your typical mean girl/ queen bee. I don't know why Michelle Vito keeps on getting typecast as the dumb rich or mean girl in movies ("irregardless?") but to her credit, she does the job really, really good. CJ Navato was okay as the nerd of the group, though he didn't really have anything to do except to make theories about what's going around them. Ethan Salvador and Jomari Angeles (both from the film "2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten") did a great job with their roles as Nash Aguas' buddies. Lara Fortuna was a revelation as the ass-kicking fighter in the group. But it was Kristel Fulgar who stole the spotlight as the mean girl turned good girl of the class. Her character was the most interesting one among the class. Kristel's performance was probably the best in the film. Her funny and quirky portrayal added to the enjoyment of watching the film.

Of course, the film isn't that perfect. It has several plotholes, some really bad characters who always choose making stupid decisions (like risking your life and another person's for a necklace?), and those weird visions of the characters' future whenever they die. The scares also don't work that much. I also sensed that some of the characters don't feel any danger at all.

Despite its flaws, "Class Of 2018" is a pretty engaging and amusing teensploitation. And aside from its entertainment value, it's also a morality play on today's society and a critique on this generation's youth, in the guise of a teen horror thriller with lots of comedy. It has its moments of fun and thrills, and loads of fan service. It's the type of film best enjoyed with friends as it promises viewers a really good time at the cinema.

Rating: 8/ 10

 "Class Of 2018" is now showing in Philippine cinemas from T-Rex Entertainment.

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