Aquaman (2018)

I love superhero flicks but usually, I'm more excited about MCU than DCEU as the latter often turn out to be not so good while the first, while pretty much all identical, are entertaining. It's different with Aquaman. I was over-the-top excited about it —entirely because of Jason Momoa at first; also because of James Wan after watching some of his horror flicks. 

The story follows Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa), the son of a lighthouse keeper, Thomas Curry (Temuera Morrison), and the princess of Atlantis, Atlanna (Nicole Kidman). When he learns that his half-brother, Orm Marius (Patrick Wilson), seeks to unite the seven underwater kingdoms to declare war to the surface world, Arthur must step forward and fulfil his destiny of becoming king.

The plot is rather thin and predictable —aren’t most of superhero origin stories, though?—, it doesn’t always make sense —actually, it’s straight stupid at times, like when Arthur lifts a church’s wall to free a man and then the guy runs away like nothing had happened—, it isn’t always consistent with the events of the other DCEU movies and some things are left unexplained —what’s the story behind Arthur’s tattoos?— and yet it manages to be an engaging and compelling story that, unlike most if not all superhero flicks, addresses, even if in a shallow way —it’s still a superhero movie—, a real-life issue, ocean pollution.

Unlike the story, which is very easy to follow, the characters can be a little confusing at times as they are poorly introduced and it isn't always easy to understand what's the connection between them, especially if you are not familiar with the Aquaman comic books. Also, they feel rushed and because of it, I didn't care much about the romance between Arthur and Mera as there isn't much of an emotional connection between them. The main villain, however, Arthur's half-brother, is such a good one as he is moved by actual motives—he blames Arthur for their death of their mother and wants to declare war to humans because they are destroying his home, the oceans.

The cast really elevates the film. Because of Jason Momoa who brings to the character tons of charisma, Arthur is a very compelling and likeable lead. He is not a guy to make fun of which often happens in pop culture; he is strong and brave and he can beautifully pull off a cocky attitude while still remaining very likeable, a character you care about and root for. Nicole Kidman does a wonderful job as Atlanna and her serious approach to the character, along with her chemistry with Momoa, delivers the a sweet, heartwarming and kind of moving moment. Patrick Wilson does a nice job as the entitled King Orm and makes it even harder to root against him. Amber Heard, on the other hand, gives a pretty weak performance as Mera.

Warner Bros. Pictures

It's visually though that Aquaman truly blew me away. The cinematography is gorgeous —some underwater shots are breathtakingly beautiful—, the special effects are solid —the underwater hair looks goddamn awful though— and the editing is top notch. The visuals don't lose a beat not even when it comes to the action, which is always exciting and entertaining. The soundtrack is also pretty beautiful and, fight me, I dare you, Pitbull's Ocean to Ocean is great.

Sure, it's not perfect but it's easily the best, funnier and most entertaining superhero flick of 2018. Again, fight me, I dare you.

The Bad Batch (2016)

I loved Ana Lily Amirpour's A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night so I could tell you I watched The Bad Batch because of it. I could also tell you that I had high expectations about it. But the truth is I watched it because of Jason Momoa, which is why I didn't have a lot of expectations from it (also, I read m.brown's review months ago and it didn't sound that good).

The film is set in a near future and follows a young woman named Arlen (Suki Waterhouse) after she is dumped into the Texas desert with other rejects of the American society known as the bad batch. Eventually, she is captured by a tribe of cannibals, led by Miami Man (Jason Momoa), who severe her right arm and leg. She manages to escape and makes her way to another tribe, led by a man known as The Dream (Keanu Reeves).

There is no need to delve more into the plot as nothing really happens in the film. Just a lot of tedious nonsense and characters doing the most idiotic and crazy shit, which is a bummer since the beginning was quite interesting and gripping.

In addition to a non-existent plot that moves at a snail-like pace, The Bad Batch also has plenty of uninteresting and weird characters --I mean, cannibal bodybuilders? I think I've seen it all now. They are pretty thin and underdeveloped, they barely speak and you won't probably give a damn about any of them.

Considering that, it doesn't come as a surprise that the cast does a terrible job. Suki Waterhouse (I had to google her because I had no idea who she was. Apparently she is a British model. Which explains a lot) is a terrible lead. She doesn't have the charm needed to make you like the character, and she has the same blank expression from start to finish. Not to mention the awful, Texan I suppose, accent she is doing here. Unfortunately, hers isn't even the worst accent. That would be Momoa's accent. The guy is really struggling to do a Cuban accent and the result is that a, it sounds weird, and b, it's almost impossible to understand what he's saying. Jim Carrey, who plays a sunburnt, mute Hermit, looks like he can't believe he is in the movie. Keanu Reeves, on the other hand, seems to be having a lot of fun as the Dream.

Neon

Thankfully, The Bad Batch has some redeeming qualities. The film has a really great dystopian atmosphere which is enhanced by the great soundtrack Amirpour picked, and the cinematography is terrific (and Jason Momoa is shirtless). These few aspects alone aren't enough to make the film bearable though.

James Wan's AQUAMAN Won't Feature Any Other DCU Characters

Jason Mamoa doesn't need any help! Are you kidding me? C'mon. And director James Wan agrees. Usually these days, superhero movies will bring in a supporting cast to borrow their star power for the movie obviously, but also to build excitement for the universe and any ensemble movies - like JUSTICE LEAGUE.

But AQUAMAN will face Black Manta and King Orm without Batman, Superman, et al.

Says Wan: "I wanted to keep the story to the world of AQUAMAN and not have to worry about what other characters are doing in their films and how that would affect us. I just thought the simplest way was to keep it clean — keep it simple and let it be an AQUAMAN story."

He continues: "I told them I understand and respect that it’s part of a bigger universe but at the end of the day I have to tell the story I want to tell, and I want to develop the character as well. It was something the studio was respectful about… in my movie he starts off one way and becomes very different by the end. It’s a classic hero’s journey. I equate our story to The Sword and the Stone, it’s a very Arthurian story about a journey to becoming king."

Perfect! This is a pure James Wan movie. Exactly what I was hoping for - bring it!

Of course, post credit scenes weren't discussed. Sooooo... there's that. Potentially there will be some JUSTICE LEAGUE influence after all.

Here's the movie's storyline:
From Warner Bros. Pictures and director James Wan comes an action-packed adventure that spans the vast, visually breathtaking underwater world of the seven seas, AQUAMAN starring Jason Momoa in the title role. The film reveals the origin story of half-human, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry and takes him on the journey of his lifetime—one that will not only force him to face who he really is, but to discover if he is worthy of who he was born to be... a king.

The film also stars Amber Heard ("Justice League," "Magic Mike XXL") as Mera, a firece warrior and Aquaman's ally throughout his journey; Oscarnominee Willem Dafoe ("Platoon," "Spider-Man 2") as Vulko, council to the Atlantean throne; Patrick Wilson ("The Conjuring" films, "Watchmen") as Orm/Ocean Master, the present King of Atlantis; Dolph Lundgren ("The Expendables" films) as Nereus, King of the Atlantean tribe Xebel; Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (upcoming "Baywatch," "Netflix's The Get Down") as the vengeful Black Manta; and Oscar winner Nicole Kidman ("The Hours" "Lion") as Arthrur's mom, Atlanna; as well as Ludi Lin ("Power Rangers") as Captain Murk, Atlantean Commando; and Temuera Morrison ("Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones," "Green Lantern") as Arthur's dad, Tom Curry.

Wan directs from a screenplay by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick ("The Conjuring 2") and Will Beall ("Gangstar Squad," TV's "Training Day"), story by Geoff Johns and James Wan and Will Beal, based on characters from DC, Aquaman created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisnger. the film is produced by Peter Safran and Rob Cowan, with Deborah Snyder, Zack Snyder, Jon Berg, Geoff Johns and Walter Hamada serving as executive producers.

Wan's team behind the scenes includes such frequent collaborators as Oscar-nominated director of photography Don Burgess ("The Conjuring 2," "Forrest Gump"), his five-time editor Kirk Morri ("The Conjuring" films, "Furious 7," the "Insidious" films), and production designer Bill Brzeski ("Furious 7"). They are joined by costume designer Kym Barrett ("The Matrix" trilogy, "The Amazing Spider-Man") and composer Rupert Gregson-Williams ("Wonder Woman").

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If you haven't seen the trailer yet - have a look! Currently at 37 million views:



AQUAMAN opens in theaters on December 21 in IMAX 3D, 3D and flat.

Source: EW

Road to Paloma (2014)

I discovered Road to Paloma months ago thanks to Margaret from Cinematic Corner and her obsession with/love for Jason Momoa (and who can blame her, I mean, have you seen him? He is a freaking god), and since I'm an awesome human being, I checked it out. 

The film, directed, produced, co-written by and starring Jason Momoa (apparently, he is no one trick pony), follows Wolf (Jason Momoa), a Native American on the run after murdering his mother's murder. As he flees across the desolate American West on his motorcycle, he crosses paths with Cash (Robert Mollohan), a down on his luck musician who is coping with the end of his marriage, and an unlikely friendship develops as they ride together towards the Teton mountain range so that Wolf can spread his mother's ashes.

Unfortunately, the plot turned out to be not even nearly as interesting as it sounds as I found it to be quite tedious and unengaging. The problem is that at some point, there's absolutely no plot here as if Momoa completely forgot he was supposed to tell a story and it's a shame because the storyline was quite promising.

Same goes for the characters, they just aren't that compelling nor developed, especially Wolf who we barely get to know. Which, again, is a shame as Jason Momoa gives a pretty good performance, being not only the tough guy we are used to seeing but also showing a softer, more tender side. He makes Wolf quite likeable and it's very easy to empathize with him. However, the standout for me was Robert Mollohan who makes the character of Cash, just as underdeveloped as Momoa's, believable.

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There are some aspects of Road to Paloma that are pretty darn good though. In fact, while the screenplay isn't particularly strong, the film is visually gorgeous. Nature and landscapes are beautifully shot. This film really captures the beauty of those places and through them conveys freedom. Also, the use of natural light is divine. And there's a wonderful use of music too.

Braven (2018)

When you watch a movie starring Jason Momoa, you expect nothing. Other than Jason Momoa taking his shirt off, of course. So maybe it's because I had very low expectations or maybe it's actually a decent film, the thing is Braven wasn't bad at all. 

When he learns his father (Stephen Lang) has dementia, logger Joe Braven (Jason Momoa) decides to take him to their remote hunting cabin to talk and spend a quiet weekend. After arriving at the cabin, they find a stash of drug: it was hidden there by a group of drug runners led by the dangerous Kassen (Garret Dillahunt) who is now back for the drug. Joe and his father will be forced to take them down.

The plot is simple and kinda basic, it doesn't take any surprising turn or twist --seriously, it can't get any more predictable than this, who lives and who dies is totally predictable and you know what is going to happen and when-- and there are so many holes and nonsense going on --basically every action took by the characters lack in logic-- to make your head hurt if you think too much about it.

Given that, one would expect paper-thin character too. Well, that's not the case with Braven. At least, it's not the case with Braven's main character, Joe Braven. The writers took the time they needed to write a decent lead, a developed lead. Joe isn't only your typical tough die-hard action-hero, he is also a loving husband, father and son. Sure, he won't be the most developed character of the year, I mean, the man goes full Rambo mode with no background whatsoever to justify that, still the characterization gives the film a bit more depth.

Saban Films

And it gives Jason Momoa the chance to shine. Again, this is not an award-worthy performance but Momoa does a pretty good job both as the sweet man and the killing machine. Also, he's physically perfect for the role.

The cast is definitely the highlight of Braven. In addition to Momoa, Stephen Lang too does a pretty good job as Joe's sick father. The character is pretty weak but his portrayal is good enough to leave an impression. Also, Lang and Momoa have a nice father-and-son chemistry. Garret Dillahunt also does a nice job as the paper-thin bad guy.

The film is also nicely paced and has some decent action.

First JUSTICE LEAGUE Trailer Drops!

I'm in Vegas in advance of Cinemacon next week and I'm excited about what's happening here on other fronts. I should be in a position to talk about something soon. Cryptic I know!

Meanwhile, the first trailer for JUSTICE LEAGUE is finally here and while the action and visuals look amazing, and seeing all those characters on the screen together is fascinating, I'm left with worry that there is no story and character development, including the villain.

I'm most intrigued with Wonder Woman and Aquaman, and the fun they can have with The Flash. Also thinking about when Superman makes his appearance in the movie.

However, my instincts tell me that JUSTICE LEAGUE may not deliver that ensemble movie we've been waiting for since Marvel's THE AVENGERS. Whedon pulled off an amazing feat of weaving characters, plot, development and at the same time feeding a franchise toward the Infinity War. While I don't want a photocopy, I hope they can deliver here with these beloved characters.

Here's the movie's storyline:
Fueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman’s selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists the help of his newfound ally, Diana Prince, to face an even greater enemy. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to find and recruit a team of metahumans to stand against this newly awakened threat. But despite the formation of this unprecedented league of heroes—Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg and The Flash—it may already be too late to save the planet from an assault of catastrophic proportions.

JUSTICE LEAGUE is slated for a November release.

AQUAMAN May Just Be The Savior Of The DC Cinematic Universe

Batman? Nolan's not directing. Superman? I like Cavill in the role but I'm not completely sold on Snyder's directing him. DC universe? I still haven't seen how they're bringing it all together and I'm worried.

I'll tell you one movie I'm NOT worried about - AQUAMAN. I think DC has swung for the fences and landed a perfect team and the cornerstone is James freakin' Wan. Warner Bros just confirmed that Wan is directing and supervising the script (being written by 300's Kurt Johnstad - another strong move) and I couldn't be more thrilled.

So we have Wan who is arguably the hottest director in Hollywood right now (Furious 7 will soon be 3rd all time behind Cameron's 1-2 punch of AVATAR and TITANIC) and he's prolific - something Cameron does not do (NO, I'm not saying he's better than Cameron. C'mon).

Add in the writing of the militaristic Johnstad (300, 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE, ACT OF VALOR) and you've got the solid backbone of a major hit already.

But now, add in the SOLID casting of Jason Momoa as AQUAMAN himself and the picture is complete. So while I'm standoffish regarding the DC cinematic universe, I'm all in for this movie. I think it will cornerstone the expansion of DC's plans much more so many think and may surprise even the top brass at Warners.

AQUAMAN is slated for a July 27, 2018 release.

Wonder Woman's Origins: Afrodite Easter Egg In Teaser Trailer For BATMAN V. SUPERMAN?

Certainly looks like it. Check the trailer for BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE and take a look at the image - you'll see "Afrodite" scrawled in graffiti on a pillar. I saw it immediately but I wanted to scan the rest of the graffiti first before posting on it. DC seems to love using this medium to plant eggs - I found something similar back in July of last year and I still think Gentleman Ghost will be in this thing or soon (yes I know some may think the initials LF are for Lucius Fox - the gadget guy for Batman; but I don't agree. Why have his initials on a roof vent? Doesn't make sense. Looking For Ghost does makes sense).

Back to the teaser trailer. It's not bad, but they are biting off a LOT for this movie. They are ushering in a new era of Batman, while continuing the story of Superman and probably doing some Aquaman and Wonder Woman origins (Afrodite is a sub-character in her universe - she gives her the gift of beauty. This however opens the door to have other beings bearing gifts as well: Demeter (strength), Athena (wisdom), Hermes (scarves... errr speed and flight), Artemis (eyes of the hunter) and Hestia (truth). It's a lot to effectively convey in one movie for DC. Marvel is used to this kind of thing and have proven themselves. I'm worried that DC can't pull it off effectively.

The movie definitely seems very dark which will set it apart from the Marvel formula, clearly. Personally I believe DC should have went with native 3D for their productions to further classify themselves as innovators and seeking the best for their audience; not followers.

Still all things being said, this is a VERY interesting movie and could be the start of something amazing. Can't wait to see Jason Momoa as Aquaman. Perfectly cast.

BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE opens on March 25, 2016.

Jason Momoa's AQUAMAN Breaks Surface!

There is only one true King. Unite the seven.

I think this is perfect casting and really amplifies my expectations for BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE. Jason Momoa just fits this role. Certainly the character needed presence as with any comic book superhero it can be a stretch to attain suspension of disbelief, but especially for the more marginal heroes and their abilities. Momoa definitely brings presence and the image shows how director Zach Snyder and DC are tackling his costume and weapon of choice.

Brilliant use of tattoos to mimic the traditional Aquaman costume! The tats also bring to mind cultural tattoos from the pacific islands - part of Momoa's heritage (his father is of native Hawaiian descent).

Momoa joins a stellar cast in BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE namely Henry Cavill (Superman), Ben Affleck (Batman), Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman), Jesse Eisenberg (Lex Luther), Jeremy Irons (Alfred), Amy Adams, Diane Lane and Laurence Fishburne.

Aquaman's exposure has been carefully planned and he is expected to have presence in JUSTICE LEAGUE PART ONE (slated for November 17, 2017), AQUAMAN (July 27, 2018) and JUSTICE LEAGUE PART TWO (June 14, 2019).

BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE is slated for a March 25, 2016 release.