The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Movie Review

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The Good: Seems to be much more character development in this film for the majority of the characters. For instance, we get to see how Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) gains a certain perspective and sense of responsibility for the war that is going on. Liam Hemsworth also seems to finally develop into a respectable character and not just the "forgotten boyfriend" as he was in the previous movies. It is also interesting how the film distinguishes, but yet blurs, the lines between the "rebels" and the "Evil Capitol" under President Snow's control. The entire tone of the movie seems to shift into more of a political drama/suspense rather than the action-like feel the previous movies had when Katniss was actually in the Hunger Games.

The Bad: Unfortunately this movie seemed to drag the same point for far too long. The point being that war sucks, you can't escape the politics, people die, and it's really depressing. It seemed rather disappointing that there wasn't a bit more action because the 3 major scenes of action were actually pretty entertaining to watch. For some reason, it also seemed like the movie should've ended about 5 mins earlier than it did. (You'll see what I'm talking about when they do a long fade to black towards the end)

The Reason: Without having read the books, it's hard to say whether this movie is headed in the right direction or not. It is, afterall, only part 1 of 2 films. So with that said, it's more than likely that those who will go see this movie will probably do so out of loyalty from watching the previous Hunger Games movies. I think that if you go in fully knowing that this movie will not give any real answers or conclusions, and that it will end with a semi-anti-climatic ending, then you will more than likely enjoy the film.

The Rating: 7/10 

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The Last Exorcism Part II Review

 The Good: This movie will keep you in suspense from beginning to end. I liked the fact that they did recap a bit of the first movie especially how they start the movie exactly where the first ended.

The Bad: There's nothing really scary about the movie. I mean they do have some shocking moments that may make that scary girl in the movie theaters drop her popcorn, but nothing that will make your heart skip a beat.

The Reason: If you're a fan of exorcism movies like myself, you'll want to see this. I think the first film was better because there was more mystery involved. You didn't know if she was really possessed or if she was a psychological case. This movie pretty much just let's you know it's all demon possession and the dynamics of that situation. This movie really isn't begging for your money in the theaters. You'll be just fine if you rent it at home.

The Rating: 7/10

The Maze Runner Review

The Good: From the very beginning you're thrust into a world of mystery. The plot is carefully unraveled and even till the very end, there are a few unpredictable twists. From then on it doesn't take long to grip you with suspense throughout the entire movie. The camera shots and angles when the boys are running through the maze will probably have you on the edge of your seat.

The Bad: While it's a major plus that the movie is unpredictable and keeps you guessing, it may come off as a little frustrating to some that you'll probably be left with more questions than answers at the movie's end. This could be due to a possible setup for a future sequel. Lastly while this may just be my own personal opinion, it was kind of hard for me to take Will Poulter seriously after seeing him in We're the Millers. No matter how tough he tries to act, he'll always be the kid that knows all the words to TLC's "Waterfalls".

The Reason: I must admit that I walked into this movie with extremely low expectations. I thought this was going to be yet another "teen movie" like the Divergent Series or The Twilight Saga. But, luckily there aren't any boring love scenes, or predictable storylines. You do still have the "teen movie" stereotypes like "The cool guy", "The mean bully", and a bunch of random cliques. Either way, if you're a skeptic of these types of movies, this one may just be the exception to change your mind. I'll recommend it for matinee viewing and/or rental material.

The Rating: 8/10

Dark Skies Review

The Good: Did a good job with presenting the aliens in a creepy way. Camera angles were done very well so that you couldn't see it coming if a "scary moment" was on the horizon or not.

The Bad: Story line wasn't that deep, and the twist ending didn't really pack much of a punch. Keri Russell for whatever reason constantly had close ups, and the only thing I could pay attention to was the bump on her lip. (Herpes? Cold Sore? Mole?) *shrugs* Either way, it was kind of distracting. Also the unbelievable doubt from the father will probably leave you frustrated. You know it all too well, all the obvious signs of trouble are flashing, and he'll just continue to believe "There's got to be another answer". Oh and that ending scene in the trailer, where the alien raises it's head up and all...NOT IN THE MOVIE. smh Must be in a deleted scene on the blue-ray or something.

The Reason: This movie will have the alien conspiracy enthusiasts to jump for joy. There's definitely more specific alien info presented here that goes way beyond little big head, wide eyed aliens that we are all accustomed to seeing. While this was a decent movie, it was far from great. The scare level was mild at best, and rather than having you jump out of your seat, you'll probably be saying "Whoah" rather than "AHHHHHHHHH!!!". You can rent this, but if you do go to the theater catch this as a matinee.

Rating: 6.5/10

SNITCH Review

The Good: Dwayne The Rock Johnson has done a great job at delivering this dramatic performance. (for an action star that is) This movie has displayed his wide range as an actor. He really makes the audience sense the feeling of being a father, and the sacrifices that parents make for their children. Heck I wanted the Rock to be my dad while watching the movie. lol

The Bad: The rock is a large individual, and it's just a really strange visual to see him not kicking butt. Seeing him outside of his normal action genre is very different, and in some cases just seems unrealistic.

The Reason: Despite the Rock's reputation as an action star, and the way this movie was portrayed in the trailer, this was far from an Action/Suspense film. It's more of a Drama/Suspense that happens to have one major scene of action. While I kinda think a little more action wouldn't have hurt in this movie, it would be a good watch in the theater. Of course, it would also make for a solid rental.

The Rating: 7.5/10