anthonylw Reviews

The VVitch: A New-England Folktale (2015)

The Witch (2016) Review

[8/10 · 21 February 2016]

Set in the 1660's is the story about a family who after leaving their plantation goes out to live in the outskirts of New England. When their baby, Sam, is taken from their parish an unruly force takes over the family that begins to slowly tear them apart. The film is directed by Robert Eggers and stars Kate Dickie, Anya-Taylor Joy, and Ralph Ineson.

It's been a long while since watching a film that is genuinely unsettling but to also find it refreshing at the same time. This time around we're talking about 'The Witch' and having viewed the trailer this past month I was eagerly looking forward to seeing it. To describe this movie is nothing but unsettling and the credit goes out to the director who was able to hone in the suspense not knowing where the movie would go next. Now I have to warn everyone in saying that this isn't your typical horror film with big budget effects and cheap jump scares forced down your throats. Instead you are treated to a time piece that sets the tone with events that took place in old folklore and a time where witchcraft was believed to exist. So for some viewers this may not rub off so well and could turn them away if your not knowing what to expect. With that said, this is not one to be overlooked.

You can read more of my review here at: http://thecinemascore.com/2016/02/19/the-witch-2016-review/

Race (I) (2016)

Race (2016) Review

[7/10 · 21 February 2016]

It's the dream of Jesse Owens to be the best runner in the world. As the 1936 Olympics is set to take place in Germany, Owens faces adversity when discrimination at home and politics overseas begins to build. With the help of Ohio Coach Larry Snyder, Owens proves to himself and his family that nothing will stand in his way from pivoting to greatness. The film is directed by Stephen Hopkins and stars Stephan James, Jason Sudeikis, and Jeremy Irons.

One of the great things we see in 'Race' is the dual narratives about the discrimination at home between whites and blacks; while overseas it's the Hitler regime readying to host the Olympics. The director, Stephen Hopkins, did an amazing job telling a story about the politics of race. Actor Stephan James who plays Jesse Owens was likable and you could sense the weight of politics on his shoulders when he is forced to make a decision to take part in the Olympics. Not taking its time to recognize how good of an athlete Owens is, much of the movie is centered on the Hitler Regime. You sense the animosity building as Germany prepares to host the games while holding hostility towards Jews and those of color participating in the event.

You can read more of my review here at: http://thecinemascore.com/2016/02/22/race-2016- review/

Deadpool (2016)

Deadpool Review

[8/10 · 16 February 2016]

The highly anticipated Marvel comic-book action movie has arrived with Ryan Reynolds in 'Deadpool'. After finding out that Wade Willis has cancer, he is reached out to participate in a series of tests that can not only cure but make him capable of having super strength. When things go bad, Willis is out to seek the man who is responsible for his transformation and save his companion. The film is directed by Tim Miller and also stars Morena Baccarin, T.J. Miller, and Ed Skrein.

Wow! This is possibly one of the best comic book adaptations we've seen in some time since 'Captain America: Winter Soldier'. Given the R rating that everyone clamored for it gave the movie a gritty edge in violence and humor; all staying true to the comics that is 'Deadpool'. All of this mounting to a refreshing contrast to the Marvel cinematic universe we all have been used to seeing. Fun is the word you would describe this film; especially the performance given by Ryan Reynolds. Fans of the Marvel universe will be happy to know that the studio did justice to the character and didn't hold any punches in the process.

You can read the entire review here at: thecinemascore.com