Movie Review for Skyfall

By Josh Stiltner

Skyfall starring Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem and Naomie Harris and in this newest 007 adventure, Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost. It’s the Bond film we’ve all been waiting for. Skyfall feels like a true resurrection of the character and the Bond universe, and an incredible addition to the storied franchise. From its spectacular opening scene in Istanbul to its sensational climax in the Scottish Highlands, the film grabs hold of the audience and never lets go. If you had any reservation about seeing this film, fear no more. The cast delivers fine performances. Daniel Craig gives a thoughtful, moving and nuanced performance, which constitutes his strongest interpretation of the character to date. Judi Dench offers a much more intimate and personal take on M. And Javier Bardem, steals every scene he appears in. He is funny, unpredictable, frightening and most interestingly, tragic. A fantastic Bond villain. Skyfall is one of the best films of the year. It hits all the right notes. Sam Mendes has infused Bond with a deft sense of fun, pathos and class, and Daniel Craig is better than ever. It’s a great time at the movies.

Review for Sinister

Written by Josh Stiltner.

Sinister starring Ethan Hawke, Juliet Rylance and James Ransone. Found footage helps a true-crime novelist realize how and why a family was murdered in his new home, though his discoveries put his entire family in the path of a supernatural entity. This flick is combo of timeless supernatural horror themes along with “found footage” technique that has become very popular. Though on the surface Sinister appears like every other horror film on the market, not so. True it’s not incredibly original, but director Scott Derrickson makes up for that with striking visuals and a daunting soundtrack. The opening of the film is particularly disturbing. I’m not going to give it away but trust me it sets an unsettling tone for the rest of the film. When it comes down to it, I wasn’t really “scared” by the film so much as I was unsettled by it. I was more bothered and rattled by the grim nature of the film. Which for a very entertaining film. And the entire cast did an awesome job throughout, they really sold it. This flick was a very pleasant surprise for me, so if like me you are looking to go see a good horror flick this Halloween season then you should check this one out for sure.

Movie Review for Looper

By Josh Stiltner

Looper starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis and Emily Blunt. In 2072, when the mob wants to get rid of someone, the target is sent 30 years into the past, where a hired gun awaits. Someone like Joe, who one day learns the mob wants to ‘close the loop’ by transporting back Joe’s future self. This is simply a very interesting film that sticks with you. The acting, directing and over all look of the it was top-notch. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis, Emily Blunt and Jeff Daniels all deliver excellent performances as everyone would expect. I was blow away how good Joseph Gordon-Levitt did capturing Bruce Willis’ mannerisms, just awesome to watch. This flick definitely captures a kind of “Twelve Monkeys” vibe but in my opinion this is a even better flick. Even thought this film won’t make anyone’s “feel good” movies list it’s still is well worth a look see. It’s a gripping, grim and often times bleak film but that doesn’t take away from it being an incredibly entertaining. This is one that I plan on seeing more than once.

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Movie Review for Dredd 3D

By Josh Stiltner

Dredd 3D starring Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby and Lena Headey. In a violent, futuristic city where the police have the authority to act as judge, jury and executioner, a cop teams with a trainee to take down a gang that deals the reality-altering drug, SLO-MO. This new version of the ultra-violent law-enforcement officer is very different from the 1995 version starring Sylvester Stallone. They did away with the goofy, slap sticky sidekick and went for an ultra gritty realistic feel. Which I have to say it works very well. I am not a reader of the Judge Dredd comic books but honestly, I loved this movie. The action in the movie ranks along side some of Stallone’s best and this new take on the movie is very entertaining from start to finish. Karl Urban did an awesome job as the legendary hard-assed, business-as-usual Judge, with the voice to match. In fact I didn’t see Urban anywhere in this movie, all I saw was Dredd. Overall, a great action flick and if that’s your thing, I really don’t think Dredd will disappoint.

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Movie Review for Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark

By Josh Stiltner

Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark starring Harrison Ford, Karen Allen and Paul Freeman. Archeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the US government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis get it in their grasp. This classic action adventure has gotten an high def face lift and brought to IMax for a one week only re-release. This was an awesome flick to begin with but seeing it in IMax made it even sweeter. Indiana Jones is the best character to ever hit the screens. And how could he not be. He is created by George Lucas, Steven Spielberg and played by the living legend himself Harrison Ford. That may seem normal now that we have lived with him for 20 years, but can you imagine what that must have been like back in 1981. This was just an amazing film and like a fine wine only gets better with age. Raiders of the Lost Ark is the epitome of entertainment. What more can be said about it. So if you haven’t seen this movie in a while or if you haven’t seen it at all then do yourself a favor and check it out on the super big screen. It is awesome, and well worth it!

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Movie Review for Hit and Run

By Josh Stiltner

Hit and Run starring Dax Shepard, Kristen Bell and Bradley Cooper and is the story of a former getaway driver Charlie Bronson (Dax Shepard) that jeopardizes his Witness Protection Plan identity in order to help his girlfriend get to Los Angeles. The feds and Charlie’s former gang chase them on the road. Now I liked Dax Shepard before watching this movie. So I went in with the hope that I’d enjoy this flick, and was right. And I was surprised to find out that Dax Shepard had a hand in writing and directing along with starring in the film. That made me like him even more cause he did a great job, him and Kristen Bell both. The chemistry between them was great and Kristen Bell was excelled in her role. This flick just had a great collection of characters from the crazy and over the top Tom Arnold to Michael Rosenbaum and Bradley Cooper. Both attempting to get revenge on Dax Shepard’s character was just hilarious. You could tell they had a lot of fun making this movie and that’s what I like to see. On top of that it has some awesome car chases through out. This movie was truly a lot of fun and I enjoyed it, immensely. Great “Movie Night” flick!

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Movie Review for The Bourne Legacy

By Josh Stiltner

The Bourne Legacy starring Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz and Edward Norton. This film is an expansion of the universe from Robert Ludlum’s novels, centered on a new hero Aaron Cross who experiences life-or-death stakes that have been triggered by previous events triggered by the events of the previous three films. This film was an awesome addition to the Bourne universe. Being a fan of the franchise, I had high expectation from this movie and they did not disappoint. Great cast, along with great acting. Jeremy Renner was just awesome and totally owned the role. I really enjoyed how well they worked in the footage from the previous films, it was seamless and very well done. It’s Bourne with a twist. So if you are a fan like me, of the Bourne films I think you’ll enjoy this new installment. This movie was very entertaining and engaging. Just an over all great action adventure.

Movie Review for The Dark Knight Rises

By Josh Stiltner

The Dark Knight Rises starring Christian Bale, Michael Caine and Gary Oldman. Eight years after the events of The Dark Knight, a new terrorist leader, Bane, overwhelms Gotham’s finest, and the Dark Knight resurfaces to protect a city that has branded him an enemy. This film was one of the best film I’ve ever seen! This film was just amazing in every single aspect. The story line was flawless. It was 2 hours 45 minutes of heart pounding awesomeness, leaving you at the edge of your seat every single second. Christopher Nolan doesn’t hold back. Tom Hardy as Bane was able to execute emotion and intimidate the audience just using his eyes. Just an amazing performance, and Christian Bale gave in my opinion the best performance he’s ever done to date. Every actor in this film gave the best performance possible. The special effects were simply breath taking. This film will go in different directions then you will expect, and will leave you knowing that this is the best film of the trilogy. If you haven’t seen it yet be sure to see it in IMAX, trust me it’s worth it to see the Dark Knight rise.

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Movie Review for The Amazing Spider-Man

By Josh Stiltner

The Amazing Spider-Man staring Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Rhys Ifans. Peter Parker finds a clue that might help him understand why his parents disappeared when he was young. His path puts him on a collision course with Dr. Curt Connors, his father’s former partner. Ok, first off I still think it’s to soon for a spidy reboot, how ever this version was awesome. I saw it in 3D IMax and it was so worth it, if you’re able that’s the way to see it, for the web swinging scenes alone. It had great action, drama and a good sense of humor to it as well, it’s just an all around sweet movie. And the fight scenes with the Lizard were sick, truly kick-ass! I’m a huge fan of both Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone and they were great in this together, they’ve got great chemistry. And it was nice to see that they stuck closer to the events in the comics, more so then the previous films by Sam Raimi. This film is without a doubt a very strong movie, well worth checking out, whether you are a comic book fan or not. It’s funny, charming, thrilling, heartfelt, and surprisingly fresh. You will be thoroughly entertained.

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Movie Review for TED

By Josh Stiltner

Ted starring Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis and Seth MacFarlane. As the result of a childhood wish, John Bennett’s teddy bear, Ted, came to life and has been by John’s side ever since a friendship that’s tested when Lori, John’s girlfriend of four years, wants more from their relationship. Family Guy creator, Seth Macfarlane makes his first live action film debut, and it’s about time. This flick is as engaging as it is clever, and was just ridiculously funny from start to finish. And it even manages to throw in some heart as well. If you enjoy Family Guy you’re sure to enjoy this movie. There are a few recycled jokes throwout but that doesn’t mean they’re not still funny. It also had some awesome surprise cameos as well, that I should have expected from Seth Macfarlane. And the cast he put together was a great group, Mark Wahlbarg and Mila Kunis did a great job together. Over all this flick was crude + lewd + rude = Perfect! It’s truly Family Guy on R-rated steroids. What more could you ask for?

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Review for Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter

Written by Josh Stiltner.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter starring Benjamin Walker, Rufus Sewell and Dominic Cooper. In this tale Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, discovers vampires are planning to take over the United States. He makes it his mission to eliminate them. First off, if you enjoy alternative history then this flick is for you. I had some reservations about this movie going in but not anymore. It is an action packed, fun flick from start to finish. Benjamin Walker did an awesome job as our 16th President, as well as the rest of the cast. But the best part of the movie is definitely the action scenes, and the special effects are awesome as well. They looked amazing. There was just an over all great look to the film. I’m a huge vampire fan and the vampires in this look great in this, especially Erin Wasson as Vadoma… you’ve got to love hot evil vampire chicks right?! So if you’re up for some vampire hunting, Abe Lincoln-style then give this one a look-see, you just might be surprised how much you’ll enjoy it.

Movie Review for That’s My Boy

By Josh Stiltner

That’s My Boy starring Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg and Leighton Meester. While in his teens, Donny fathered a son, Todd, and raised him as a single parent up until Todd’s 18th birthday. Now, after not seeing each other for years, Todd’s world comes crashing down when Donny resurfaces just before Todd’s wedding. This flick is not you’re average Adam Sandler film and it is definitely one of the more raunchy movies I’ve seen this summer. This flick is for those who are fans of movies like The Hangover, Project X, or the latest Harold and Kumar which I am, those fans should give this film a try. I thought it was hilarious, Sandler and Andy Samberg make a good team. I left the theater tonight actually smiling, running those crazy lines over and over again in my head. I was uplifted, energized, and felt really, really good. Other cool thing about the movie is the soundtrack, especially the two eighty hits that were very catchy for me, definitely fitting tunes that had me tapping my toes. This is a fun movie if you don’t mind seeing a little “raunch” and having an open mind to a new kind of Happy Madison Production and sit back in that theater seat relax and enjoy yourself!

Movie Review for Prometheus

By Josh Stiltner

Prometheus starring Noomi Rapace, Logan Marshall-Green and Michael Fassbender and is the story of A team of explorers discover a clue to the origins of mankind on Earth, leading them on a journey to the darkest corners of the universe. There, they must fight a terrifying battle to save the future of the human race. Despite the negative things the haters, which you should ignore by the way, are saying about this film. I have to say that this flick blow my mind. I wish to stand on a mountain top to proclaim my absolute love for this film. Ridley Scott did an amazing job. True it is a little confusing, this film is not a true sequel or prequel to the Aliens films but does live in the same universe. This story was meant to be a stand alone story with nods to the Alien franchise. The film it’s self looks amazing and the actors provide a great performance and all serve their roles perfectly, especially Noomi Rapace who owned her strong female Ripley like role. So if like me you are an Alien fan you’re sure to enjoy this Alien inspired tale.

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Review for Snow White and the Huntsman

By Josh Stiltner

Snow White and the Huntsman starring Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron. In a twist to the fairy tale, the Huntsman ordered by the Evil Queen to hunt down Snow White but instead winds up becoming her protector and mentor in a quest to vanquish the Evil Queen. This retelling with a twist, of the disney classic tale was in a word “Awesome!”. It was very well done from start to finish. The best way to describe it would be to say it’s like Lord of the Rings meets the King Arthur legend. And if you were to find something to use as your inspiration, you could do any better then those two epic tales. Kirsten Stewart as Snow White was a perfect casting choice. She did an amazing job, along with the rest of the cast. And the over all atmosphere and CGI in the film was very good as well. This was just a great film over all, and the song “Breath of Life” by Florence And The Machine played during the end credits was a great choice for the end title animation.

Review for Men in Black III

Written by Josh Stiltner.

Men in Black III starring Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin and in this installment Agent J travels in time to MIB’s early years in the 1960s, to stop an alien from assassinating his friend Agent K and changing history. Sure the “Men In Black” have been missing-in-action for a while but they’re back better than ever. They are still a barrel of fun that comes as more of a surprise that the fans of the MIB have been waiting for and they do not disappoint. With Director Barry Sonnenfeld back at the helm and his old monster make buddy Rick Baker and his kick ass creature designs make this 100% MIB. Along with Smith & Jones reuniting of course, it’s not MIB with out our guys. And with the addition of Josh Brolin as young agent K was amazing. His performance was spot on. Plus this flick adds time travel to the mix, which I’ve always been a fan of time-travel plots and I think it provides a great “Back To The Future” fantasy element to the MiB franchise. MIB 3 stays true to the mood and tone of the previous films, light-hearted, fun and always entertaining.