Movie Review: Straight Outta Compton

Entertaining film (especially to fans of N.W.A, which I am) that loses its focus for much of the final act. The creation of N.W.A and their rise to superstardom is fascinating to watch, particularly as the seeds for their eventual downfall are sown. Unfortunately, the movie loses its voice after the group falls apart and it struggles to find a strong narrative for the last portion of the film. The overall essence and influence of N.W.A is captured quite well, and it’s interesting seeing the events of their careers from their perspectives. The cast does a good job overall. Jason Mitchell quickly wins over the audience with Easy-E’s charisma and humor, but loses most of that charm for a large chunk of the film. Neil Brown Jr. also brings comic relief as DJ Yella, but disappears for much of the film as the focus is on the “big three.” Aldris Hodge has a strong presence playing MC Ren, but at times seems to be in the movie just to remind us the Ren was in the group. O’Shea Jackson Jr. does a great job of emulating his father, and at times temporarily causes one to feel that they’re watching the real Ice Cube. And with Cube being the most public member of the group, this is impressive. There are a handful of strong, emotional moments, and the cast delivers in making the audience care. The movie does shy away from some of Dr. Dre’s assault-related legal issues and never truly resolves if the controversial Jerry Heller (played quite well by Paul Giamatti) bilked the group out of millions of dollars.

***1/2 out of *****

 

Movie Review: Fantastic Four (2015)

A fairly strong beginning is thrown off course by an odd middle-section, and then finally completely derailed by a weak climax. Early on in the film, we‘re introduced to a nuanced Reed Richards. His friendship with Ben Grimm continues to move the plot along, and then unfortunately Ben is suddenly dropped out of the film until they need to shoehorn him back into the plot. There’s some decent interaction between Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm and Von Doom, but there’s also something majorly lacking. Sue and Johnny never come off as siblings, Reed and Sue’s flirting doesn’t really go anywhere and Johnny and Ben have none of the playful banter expected from these two characters. Even Reed and Von Doom’s “frenemy” relationship lacks any intensity. Once the team gets their powers, the film takes an odd turn and skips ahead past what should be the most interesting part of the movie. The climax comes in out of nowhere, and the dynamic of a family coming together as a team is practically non-existent. And although Dr. Doom showed promise early on, the filmmakers once again create a lackluster version of one of Marvel Comics’ greatest villains. The CGI tends to be pretty weak, which is obvious during the final action sequence.

** out of *****

 

Movie Review: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation

The over-the-top stunts and likable characters are back, and although they really do nothing to add to the “Mission: Impossible” franchise, they do give us an enjoyable movie. Tom Cruise is entertaining once again as Ethan Hunt, and puts both himself and his character at risk throughout the film. With the exception of Simon Pegg, most of the returning cast members take a back seat for much of the time. New comer Rebecca Ferguson is a strong addition, with her uncertain loyalties keeping the story interesting. Also, she has a few nice action sequences as well. Meanwhile, Sean Harris’ role as the film’s villain underwhelms. A “Mission: Impossible” movie is best known for its elaborate action sequences, and it doesn’t quite deliver here. The premise looks great in the trailers, but tends to not payoff in the actual film.

**1/2 out of *****