[5.75/10] Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice [3D] (2016)

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

Quick Review: The first half is so crowded, and all over the place, the plot barely makes any sense, but as soon as Snyder picks up his game half way through, "BvS" evolves into a pretty grand, yet rather overblown CGI-laden spectacle of over-the-top action and stylishly grim 3D visuals. Sadly, both superheroes have one- note characterization, due to a weak script, and the otherwise flashy, and capably-acted "BvS" has little soul, or humor for that matter.

Quick Reviews: 2015 Movies [PART 01]

The Last Witch Hunter (2015) - The opening sequence is entertaining, and beyond promising, but sadly, this turns out to be the only good thing about this cheese-fest, wrongly set in modern days, as it's neither scary, nor fun, nor even so-bad-it's good. (4.50/10)

Vacation (2015) - Okay, there are one or two very hilarious moments in this unnecessary reboot of the popular comedic franchise, but "Vacation" fails to take advantage of its talented cast, as they have to work with a mediocre script that ruins the movie. (5.00/10)

Sisters (2015) - This movie is just nuts. And not at all in a good way. Even though Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are always great together, this time not even they manage to handle the crazy mess happening on screen. At least "Sisters" has heart. (5.50/10)

Entourage (2015) - So restless, it's almost too much to handle at times, "Entourage" often feels like one very long episode of the popular TV series, but not  in a bad way -- the cast is spot-on, the energy is great, and it possesses the 'cool factor'. (5.75/10)

Everest (2015) - Neither bad, nor particularly exceptional, "Everest" will hold your interest throughout for what it is, but if you expect big thrills, you may end up very disappointed. One the other hand, it can't be denied the the film is very realistic. (6.25/10)

The Wave (2015) - This surprisingly effective Norwegian disaster flick not only fully benefits from the breathtaking location it is set in, but it flaunts amazing character development, and boasts some spot-on CGI work. The intensity level is insane. (6.75/10)

Spotlight (2015) - Well-made, superbly-acted, and definitely significant, "Spotlight" is a memorable movie, indeed. That said, the tough subject matter makes it difficult to watch at times, despite the subtlety of it. Plus, it all feels somewhat very familiar. (7.00/10)

The Gift (2015) - Grim in tone, constantly intriguing, and full of twists and turns, "The Gift" is a simply great debut feature by actor-director Joel Edgerton, even if it's far from thoroughly original. The suspense will keep you glued to the screen, though. (7.25/10)

The Intern (2015) - It's fair to say, "The Intern" is a pure crowd-pleaser, as it does an amazing job at balancing humor and drama, providing as many laughs, as it does emotional moments. De Niro and Hathaway work amazing together, and both deliver! (7.50/10)

The Martian [3D] (2015) - Unexpectedly funny, clever in its approach, and truly well-crafted, "The Martian" is hands down one of 2015's best movies, all thanks to Ridley Scott's capable direction, and Damon's stellar 'one man show' performance. (8.00/10)

[4.75/10] Dark Was the Night (2015)

Dark Was the Night (2015)

Quick Review: The final act brings some solid, if familiar thrills, Kevin Durand's mesmerizing charisma is what makes the film watchable, and unlike the questionable CGI effects, the practical creature ones are very passable, but "Dark Was the Night" still has such a moody atmosphere, sluggish pacing, and unattractively bleak visuals, and it uses so many overly familiar plot devices, it leaves a bad taste in the mouth, as none of the director's efforts to make it good really pay off in the end.

[5.25/10] Gods of Egypt [3D] (2016)

Gods of Egypt [3D] (2016)

Quick Review: It is rarely boring, even sort of fun to watch at times, especially during the stylized action sequences, shot with a 360-degree camera movement effect that makes them look spectacular, and both the pretty sets and costumes are almost overwhelmingly lavish, but the utter lack of depth, waste of acting talent, and A. Proyas' insecure, often lame direction, turn "Gods of Egypt" into a rather forgettable 3D experience, you'll remember only for its overuse of so-so special effects.

[9.25/10] Deadpool (2016)

Deadpool (2016)

Quick Review: As unapologetically naughty as it's hilariously witty, and constantly laugh-out-loud funny, this long-awaited Marvel movie is pretty much everything it should be, and then some -- balanced to perfection, restlessly energetic, stylishly action-packed, and led by Ryan Reynolds' delightfully goofball, yet passionate performance, "Deadpool" is literally BLOODY awesome, and the R-rated superhero film we've been dreaming of! In fact, the only bad thing about is being a bit too short.

[6.25/10] Burnt (2015)

Burnt (2015)

Quick Review: The somber tone does not feel right, and much like a burnt meal, it leaves a bitter taste in the mouth, nor it does go well with the subject matter, since cooking is supposed to be big fun even under pressure, and Cooper does not play the most likable character ever, but on the other hand the rivalry and all of the interactions are intriguing, the quick-cut editing during the intense cooks gives it both edge and style, and everyone involved are beyond convincing as top chefs.

[7.25/10] Crimson Peak (2015)

Crimson Peak (2015)

Quick Review: What starts off as a typical period ghost story, smoothly transforms into something way more visceral in terms of terror, and the end result is an unsettling blend of sheer dread and dark romance with a twist, that succeeds vastly due to del Toro's strong visual storytelling. Everything from the slick production design to the murky cinematography makes "Crimson Peak" one of the most atmospheric horror films ever made that also benefits largely from its undeniably gifted cast.

[6.50/10] In the Heart of the Sea [3D] (2015)

In the Heart of the Sea [3D] (2015)

Quick Review: The huge contrast between the adventurous and fairly exciting first half and the difficult-to- watch and rarely compelling second one is so drastic, it basically kills the film's potential for epicness midway through, and makes it uneven. That said, the delightfully old-school style of storytelling is to be admired, the acting is really hard to fault and the 3D visuals are so sweepingly pretty they will take your breath away. Too bad the film lacks impact.

[3.25/10] The Gallows (2015)

The Gallows (2015)

Quick Review: Effective only at the very end, "The Gallows" is basically cursed to hang out and collect dust on the shelves, as it has nothing to offer, other than shaky camera work that will make you dizzy, a bunch of obnoxious characters you'd love to see dead at any point, and one or two scares so cheap, they feel more like failed attempts at such. Instead of creating an ominous atmosphere, the low-key lightning cheapens the visuals, and shows that this film has technical issues as well.

[5.75/10] Turbo Kid (2015)

Turbo Kid (2015)

Quick Review: Very nostalgic, very 80s, and very cool, if very sloppy in terms of execution, "Turbo Kid" is a post-apocalyptic flick that celebrates everything viewers loved about the cheap sci-fi flicks from the decade it pays cinematic tribute to, but those unfamiliar with it may find it tedious, amateurish, and too 'old-school' for their tastes. The colorful props, and objects pop out against the barren scenery, the score is a winner, and the acting is just over-the-top as the gore it splatters all over.

[4.50/10] Aloha (2015)

Aloha (2015)

Quick Review: With its bright color palette, that finely reflects the feel of the setting, and all of the references to this pretty location and its culture, "Aloha" succeeds as a 'love letter' to Hawaii but what distracts from that is the purposeless and incoherent plot which consists of dull romance, and an implausible 'revenge' back story, that never fit together well. And with so many great names amongst the cast, this film is pretty much a waste of talent, as the script fails to cope with all that 'star power'.

[6.50/10] Southpaw (2015)

Southpaw (2015)

Quick Review: Being pretty by-the-numbers, hence, easy to predict for the most part, it fails to distinguish itself from all the rest sports dramas of this type, but thanks to Fugua's sleek visual style, and Gyllenhaal's ability to turn a good story into great one, through his superb acting and real dedication, "Southpow" remains involving from beginning to the end, while also striking a huge emotional punch. The boxing matches are the real deal, and the biggest highlight of this finely-crafted film.

[7.25/10] Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015)

Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015)

Quick Review: Moving along at a taut pace for the most part and filled with heart-racing action set-pieces, but also carrying loads of dramatic weight to balance it all up, "Scorch Trials" is a bigger, scarier, and way more mature successor to the great original, if not necessarily superior, as it runs out of steam towards the end. It makes up for that with strong performances, and some beautifully gritty post-apocalyptic imagery. The 'mouse scene' is a killer!

CineMarvellous Preview: Four new stills from "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: The Green Legend"

Four brand new stills / images from "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: The Green Legend" (Official Facebook Page), the upcoming sequel to Ang Lee's martial arts masterpiece from the year 2000, have just been released, and they look absolutely stunning, indeed!

Directed by the legendary Yuen Woo-Ping, mostly known to western audiences with his work as action choreographer in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", "The Matrix", and "Kill Bill" movies, this sequel tells the story of a group of noble and legendary knights and soldiers who fight for peace and justice by protecting a 400-year old blade named The Green Destiny in Qing Dynasty China.

Starring Michelle Yeoh, Donnie Yen, Harry Shum Jr., Natasha Bordizzo, and Jason Scott Lee, "CTHD: The Green Legend" is set for release in China on February 8, 2016 (The day of the Chinese New Year), a week ahead of the U.S. Netflix / IMAX release.

(click on the images to enlarge)

 Michelle Yeoh as Yu Shu Lien

Donnie Yen as Meng Si-Zhao a.k.a. Silent Wolf

Harry Shum Jr. as Tie-Fang

Harry Shum Jr. and Natasha Liu Bordizzo as Xue-Ping a.k.a Snow Vase

Stills are taken from the movie's official Facebook Page

[5.00/10] Creep (2015)

Creep (2015)

Quick Review: Far from scary, but totally disturbing, "Creep" lives up to its title 100%, owing all of that to Mark Duplass, who turns in a totally nutty performance as the seemingly friendly, yet obsessive troubled man skillfully manipulating his victims with his confusing behavior. It all comes across very credibly through Brice's camera, who also directs the movie. However, the fact that "Creep" takes quite some time to warm up can't be neglected, plus, it looks awful even for a 'found footage' film.

[3.00/10] Contracted: Phase II (2015)

Contracted: Phase II (2015) 

Quick Review: The funny thing is, this very useless sequel pretty much suffers from the exact same issues it so-so predecessor does -- it never explains what causes the infection, showing just the consequences of it, which is frustrating. On top of that, "Phase II" attempts to include some poorly-developed crime elements in it, which further bring it down, along with the poor acting. The only good thing is it delivers the gross out gore everyone's expecting to.

[6.25/10] Magic Mike XXL (2015)

Magic Mike XXL (2015)

Quick Review: Playing as a road movie -- a sassy, yet rather frivolous one, "Magic Mike XXL" is a passably enjoyable sequel, created mostly to make ladies happy, and guys pretty jealous, in which it succeeds, even if its so-so plot is, as expected, just an excuse for its well-built characters to take all of their cloths off and dance. Speaking of which, Tatum yet again proves he's got the moves, with his routines being the best parts of the film, which in the end owes all of its charms to the cool cast.

[5.00/10] Attack on Titan (2015)

Attack on Titan (2015)

Quick Review:Die-hard fans of the Japanese manga books, anime TV series, and video game of the same name will get almost everything they bargain for, but those unfamiliar with the source material may find "Attack on Titan" a bit unbalanced and hard to enjoy, due to its sluggish pacing, as it ranges from slow, and talky to extremely chaotic, and even though it cares for its characters and brings equal amounts of thrilling action and uncompromising terror, this contrast kills the intensity it aims.