My Top 10 Movie Deaths

In honor of Halloween this year, I have decided to make a top 10 movie list. The obvious choice would be to write a top 10 horror film list, but I have chosen a much darker, SPOILER driven topic. My favorite movie death scenes.

WARNING the following list contains major SPOILERS from a variety of different films. Read at your own discretion.

Now, it was a very difficult process to pick my 10 favorite movie deaths. I left out some iconic deaths as well as some rather touching deaths. So before we begin, I would like to list my Honorable Mentions:

Janet Leigh as Marion Crane in Psycho

Brad Pitt as Chad Feldheimer in Burn After Reading

Joe Pantoliano as Teddy in Memento

Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito in Goodfellas

Vincent D'Onofrio as Pvt. Pyle in Full Metal Jacket

Brendan Gleeson as Ken in In Bruges

James Franco as James Franco in This Is The End

Steve Coogan as Damien Cockburn in Tropic Thunder

and

Bill Murray as Bill Murray in Zombieland

Now, let's begin...

10. Steve Buscemi as Carl Showalter in Fargo

 To begin the list I have chosen what I believe to be one of the most memorable movie deaths of all time. In this dark Coen brothers film, where one bad decision leads to another, Steve Buscemi finds himself shot in the cheek after a ransom trade goes sour. After he tries to make off with the majority of the money, his partner murders him with an axe and then attempts to get rid of Buscemi's body using a woodchipper. This death belongs on this list due to its overall shock value and its gritty aftermath.

 

9. Paul Dano as Eli Sunday in There Will Be Blood

In one of the finest performances of his career, Paul Dano plays a passionate preacher opposite Daniel

Day-Lewis's Oscar Winning Performance as Daniel Plainview, an 'Oil Man'. Throughout this film, the tension between these two characters rises as both are led by vain ambition. Their utter disdain for one another guides the film along. They hate each other, but they need each other. And after many years, once Plainview has everything he could desire (and lost everyone he ever loved along the way), Eli Sunday comes to him asking for help. We see in the final scene of this film, Plainview's wrath is unleashed upon Sunday as he beats the greedy preacher to death with a bowling pin. While this death is not as gritty or iconic as most others, it concludes the film in an extraordinary way, and brings a dramatic conclusion to the relationship between these two characters.

 

8. John Travolta as Vincent Vega in Pulp Fiction

In Quenten Tarantino's crime masterpiece, John Travolta stars as hit man, Vincent Vega. Now, the film jumps around in time, so you will see Vega murdered earlier in the story, but rest assured, he will pop up again before the credits roll. As tensions are heightened between Boxer Butch Coolidge (Bruce Willis) and Vega's boss, Marsellus Wallace (Ving Rhames), Butch plans to flee Los Angeles, however his girlfriend forgets to pack his lucky watch. Butch heads back to his house (against his greater instincts) to retrieve his watch. Once in his apartment, he discovers Vega sitting, waiting for Butch's return. After a moment of silence is interrupted by a Pop Tart, Butch guns Vega down in the bathroom. I know, it sounds ridiculous. But that's Tarantino for you... This film belongs on this list due to its very high shock factor.

7. Michael Madsen as Vic Vega/Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs

Speaking of Tarantino, the next death on our list is none other than Travolta's brother in the Tarantino Universe, Vic Vega (a.k.a. Mr. Blonde). In Tarantino's Directorial Debut, Reservoir Dogs is centered around six thieves (each given a nickname based on a color) following a jewelry heist gone awry. With only four of the thieves left alive, one of whom is shot in the gut and passed out on the floor for half the movie, the remaining 'dogs' contemplate the possibility that one of them may be an undercover police officer. While the rest of the thieves are gone, with the exception of Mr. Orange (Tim Roth) who is passed out, Blonde tortures a police officer he had taken captive after the heist. After slicing at the cop's face with a cut-throat razor, and hacking off his ear, Blonde is about to light the officer on fire when-- BANG! Orange unloads his clip into Blonde's chest. This is such a great movie death sequence, and it definitely belongs on this list due to its severe grit and shock value. It is also the biggest reveal in the film. Orange is a rat!

6. Willem Dafoe as Sgt. Elias in Platoon

In Oliver Stone's exploration of the war in Vietnam, Willem Dafoe plays the friendly badass Sgt. Elias. After tensions rise between Elias and Sgt. Barnes (Tom Berenger), Elias is betrayed by Barnes and shot in the jungle. After Barnes returns and informs the rest of the Platoon that Elias was killed by Charlie Co. they lift off in their helicopters, but just before they leave, out of the jungle runs a mortally wounded Elias on his last breath trying to reach his allies, followed by hundreds of Vietcong. He endures bullet after bullet until he falls to his knees and lifts his hands to the sky. This is perhaps one of the most iconic death sequences in film history. Its tragic tone alone is enough reason to give it its spot on this list. It is a beautifully directed scene, and a huge turning point in the film.

5. James Caan as Sonny Corleone in The Godfather

Alas, how can you have a list about the greatest movie deaths without mentioning The Godfather. In Francis Ford Coppola's masterpiece, we see the vain firstborn son of Don Vito Corleone (played majestically by the legendary Marlon Brando), Sonny Corleone take up his father's mantle. And after he is betrayed by his own brother-in-law, as he rushes to his sister's aid, he is gunned down at a toll station on the road by a rival gang. This scene is so gritty and so intense that while you are watching it, you are begging for it to be a cheesy dream sequence. And even after he is shot full of holes, as Sonny scrambles out of his car, we hope beyond hope that he will somehow survive. But our hopes are smashed as Sonny is continuously shot until he is no longer moving... And then he is shot some more (for good measure)... And then kicked in the face. This scene is crucial to the film as it drives our protagonist, Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) to pick up where his brother left off. It also has an extraordinary cringe and shock factor. RIP Sonny.

 

4. Ian McKellen as Gandalf the Grey in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Of all the deaths on this list, this is perhaps the most touching. Yes, we've seen countless Christ figures in mythology and fantasy, but none of them hold a candle to Gandalf... Maybe Aslan. In this beautifully directed scene we see Gandalf challenge the great Balrog of Morgoth deep within the heart of the Mines of Moria. He stands centered on the narrow Bridge of Khazad-dum between the Balrog and the rest of the felloship. "You shall not pass!!!" McKellen delivers these fantastical lines with enormous ferocity. As he sends the Balrog spiraling to its doom, the demon's whip finds Gandalf's ankle and pulls him down. Gandalf utters his last bit of advice to the fellowship, "Fly, you fools," then falls to his demise (but not before a kick-ass free falling fight sequence which is revealed in The Two Towers). It is a touching scene followed by a moment of fleeting despair. The rest of the fellowship contemplate their quest, and the lead character, Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) then comes to the realization that he must complete this quest on his own... I could go on and on about the sacrifice of Gandalf and the intensity of this sequence. But I doubt you want to read a full essay about a fantasy character. So lets just leave it at this; this is not only one of my favorite death scenes, but also one of my favorite scenes in all of cinema.

 

3. Ryan Gosling as Luke in The Place Beyond the Pines

Part of me did not want to include this scene in this list solely because of its shock value and it is the one movie I do not want to spoil for anyone. However, I couldn't resist its inclusion. This is such a beautifully orchestrated film, and Gosling delivers one of his finest performances as Luke, a motor-cyclist stunt driver who discovers he has a son. In an effort to prove he can support a family to the mother (Eva Mendes), he begins robbing banks. After one bank heist goes wrong, he finds himself in a car chase with rookie cop, Avery (Bradley Cooper), which ends in a random person's home. As Luke comes to terms with the fact that he has pushed his luck too far, he sits in a vacant bedroom and calls his lover. Avery, kicks in the door, and in a panic shoots Luke in the chest, sending him out of the second story window. This scene was so shocking. It takes place only midway through the movie, and up until this point, Gosling was the only protagonist introduced to us. Director, Derek Cianfrance, brilliantly shifts our support from beloved Luke to his assailant, Avery, a very tricky task to pull off as a story teller. Gosling's death in this film is a game changer, to say the least, and in my book will always be one of the most shocking and tragic movie deaths.

 

2. Leonardo DiCaprio as Billy Costigan in The Departed

There is nothing more tragic than watching our hero meet his/her demise (especially if that hero is Leonardo DiCaprio). This film is one of the most brilliantly directed and acted films to date. At the climax of the film, after undercover officer, Billy Costigan (DiCaprio) discovers the rat within the Special Investigations Unit is none other than Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), he sets up Sullivan and urges him to meet him at an abandoned building. After beating the living s**t outta Sullivan, Costigan arrests him and takes him into an elevator to bring him in. Finally, we are about to receive justice, as our hero plans to destroy one of the most slimy, horrible, terrible, no good scumbags in film history, until they reach the bottom level on the elevator, the doors open and-- BAM!!! Costigan is shot right in the head by another rat within SIU. It is a tragic moment, and it is hard to watch. But it is by far one of the most shocking deaths in film history. Sullivan kills the other rat, and makes himself out to be a hero. Our world is destroyed... But if you stick around to the end of the film, you will finally find your justice as Mark Wahlberg sneaks into Matt Damon's house and shoots him in the head. Murder never felt so right.

 

1. Sean Bean in EVERYTHING

It is impossible to make a list regarding movie deaths without mentioning Sean Bean, who is the King of dying in movies. Whether he is laying down his life for his daughters' sake, or to save to vulnerable members of his fellowship, or finally meeting his justice as a psychotic hitchhiking murderer, no one dies quite like Sean Bean. And I genuinely mean that. Sean Bean is, in my opinion, one of the most talented actors around, and he can bring such emotion and angst to the scenes in which he meets his demise. I personally would like to see him live through his films, as he is a very charismatic actor and i enjoy his work... Nevertheless, Sean Bean tops this list due to quantity AND quality of all of his death sequences. Here is a little reel of all the times Sean Bean has met his end.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read my nerdy list. I hope you found it intriguing. Also, I must remind you, that all film is subjective. If you disagree with me on any points I made in this post, or feel like I left out any great movie death scenes, please comment. I love discussing films with my fellow audience members.

X-Men: Days of Future Past Film Review

X-Men: Days of Future Past

Directed by Bryan Singer
Written by Simon Kinberg
Story by Simon Kinberg, Jane Goldman and Matthew Vaughn
Starring: Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Halle Berry, Ellen Page, Shawn Ashmore, Evan Peters, Anna Paquin, with Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen and Peter Dinklage
Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense sci-fi violence and action, some suggestive material, nudity and language

WARNING!!! SPOILER ALERT!!! The following contains major plot points from X-Men: Days of Future Past. If you have not seen the film, go and see it, then come back and read. Otherwise, happy reading.

In the seventh installment of the beloved X-Men film franchise, director Bryan Singer and writer Simon Kinberg attempt to establish a firmer continuity and undo many of the faults featured in the previous X-Men films. It provides exciting visuals, intriguing storytelling and some of the best acting ever featured in a Superhero film.

Ahh, where to begin... I loved this movie. It has been a very long time since a comic book film has come along and completely lived up to all of the hype, and all of fans' expectations. The first thing I would like to talk about is the story.

The Days of Future Past storyline in the comics is one of the most complex comic book storylines every written. Simon Kinberg seamlessly delivers a script that both appeases the comic book dorks and simplifies things for everyone else. The characters are brilliantly written. I feel I must briefly highlight a few.

Firstly (and most obviously) is the rage-filled, clawed outlaw Wolverine. Hugh Jackman (Les Miserables,
Prisoners) provides a new take on Logan. In the past it seems that every time we see this character, he is little more than a rage-filled outcast who tramples all over everyone, then retreats into his solitude.

This time around we get a gentler Logan. Someone who cares deeply about the people around him, and most importantly, someone who doesn't eat up the majority of the screentime. In almost every X-Men film Wolverine has been an over-abundance. It seems that they finally struck the balance between Wolverine and the rest of the X-Men in this film. He acts as much more of a mentor for the younger Professor X, which is a bit of a role-reversal, and was very enticing to witness.

This film is much more than just a battle to save the world. It also has a much more intimate mission.. The battle for Mystique's soul. Jennifer Lawrence (The Hunger Games, Silver Linings Playbook) tops her previous performance in X-Men: First Class. We witness as Raven is tortured by the loss of her close mutant friends, and as she examines pictures of their mutilated bodies, we feel her rage, her despair, and her thirst for blood.

Lawrence has never been better. Like I said before, this movie has the best acting ever captured in a super hero film. For the first time since her trademark role in The Hunger Games, I didn't feel like I was watching Katniss Everdeen. She really took ownership of this role, and completely transformed herself to get into the mind of Mystique.


Finally, the last two characters I would like to examine are Magneto and Professor X.

In this film we get to experience both the young and old versions of these characters. The younger versions, brilliantly played by James McAvoy (Wanted) and Michael Fassbender (12 Years A Slave). The older versions played by Patrick Stewart (Star Trek), and Ian McKellen (The Lord of the Rings). With all respect to Sirs McKellen and Stewart, I have to admit that McAvoy and Fassbender owned their roles in this film.

I did not see a single error in their acting. This is the best performance I have ever seen from McAvoy, and my all time favorite scene in the entire movie is the inevitable confrontation between the two characters on the plane. The emotion and intensity that these two actors brought to these characters blew me away.

These actors and characters were not the only highlights of the film, but there is just not enough time to delve into each and every character. Here are some other highlights;

The Sentinels

 

Initially, I was concerned about the outcome of the mutant hunting robots known as the Sentinels. I am happy to say that the final product was extraordinary. The Sentinels made for some of the most haunting aspects of the film and provided some of the coolest fight sequences in the entire X-Men series.

 Quicksilver

 

When we saw the first images of Quicksilver in his costume fans were absolutely outraged. "He looks like someone who got lost at Coachella!" But Evan Peters' portrayal as Peter Maximoff was a scene stealer. Some would argue that his time on camera was the best part of the movie. He was cleverly written, and implemented perfectly into the story, providing charm and wit into a plot full of despair. I can't wait for his return in X-Men: Apocalypse. Aaron Taylor-Johnson, you have got some big (and fast) shoes to fill in Avengers: Age of Ultron.

Bolivar Trask

 

It is no secret that I might be one of the biggest Game of Thrones fans to ever walk the Earth, but I promise you, I hold no bias. Peter Dinklage was at his 'A' game in this film as he played the brilliant creator of the Sentinels, Bolivar Trask. Trask is such an interesting villain, made better by Dinklage's performance. With a twisted mind and a noble agenda, Bolivar Trask belongs in the Hall of Fame for supervillains. 

A Restoring Ending

 

Many of us saw it coming, but nevertheless, when Logan awakes in the school after completing his mission, saving mutantkind and he lays eyes on the resurrected Jean Grey, all of our hearts were lifted. We feel an immense amount of joy as he reaches out to her only to get his hand swatted away by her hovering boyfriend, Scott "Cyclops," also resurrected. Nothing pissed fans off more than when Brett Ratner decided it was best to kill off our favorite characters in X-Men: The Last Stand, and it was heartwarming to see Bryan Singer bring our favorite team of mutants back together.

Apocalypse

The brief post-credits sequence reveals a first look at the highly anticipated villain who will be challenging the X-Men in the next film, X-Men: Apocalypse which is expected to hit theaters in May of 2016. In Apocalypse we will see James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult and Evan Peters return to reprise their roles, with newcomer Channing Tatum to portray Gambit. It is also rumored that Hugh Jackman will return to reprise his role as Logan/Wolverine for an eighth time.

  

I loved every second of this movie, and I can say with complete confidence that this is my favorite Superhero film of the year, and my favorite X-Men movie. If I have any complaints it is that I wish we could have experienced more time with the future setting. This film is primarily focused on the past, and I was really looking forward to seeing some of the original castmembers shine once more (Halle Berry has like two lines in the entire movie... WTF??) however, the positives of this movie far outweigh the negatives. I give this film a shining 9/10.

If you have anything to add, or disagree with me on any of my points, please feel free to comment below. The beauty of film, and all kinds of art, is that it inspires intriguing conversations.

Feasting on Failures

Madness, chaos and despair entreating

At the place where my burdens are buried,

Where now, it seems, all hope is fleeting.

And, far away, my love has been carried.

Stuck in the facade, the staging of life,

Exit all grace, all mercy, all remission,

And enter all rage, all vengeance, all strife,

To burden me with the weight of their sin.

Feasting on failures and scapegoats inside,

I harden my heart to the ones I once knew,

Daring not to look inward, out of sheer pride,

I have somehow forgotten, 'to thine own self be true'

But then she came like a wave in the sea,

And I, a mere fish to be crushed beneath,

To be washed by all of her love and mercy.

You took my sword, and showed it its sheath.

All burdens in check, in unwavering repent,

You showed me grace, that grace I'd forgot.

And here I thought all love had been spent,

But how to hold a grudge, you know not.

Feasting on failures and dressing each wound,

You soften my heart to the ones I once knew.

Now in me, the enemy, marooned.

I now have found love, for in love, I found you.

Godzilla Film Review

Godzilla
Directed by Gareth Edwards
Written by Max Borenstein and Dave Callaham
Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ken Watanabe, Elizabeth Olsen, Juliette Binoche, Sally Hawkins, David Strathairn and Bryan Cranston
Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of destruction, mayhem and creature violence

WARNING, the following review contains SPOILERS. If you have not yet seen this film, go and see it first, then come back and read. Otherwise, happy reading!

On the 60th anniversary of Earth's most beloved monster, director Gareth Edwards attempts to reboot the franchise with updated visuals, and a darker plot which ultimately redeems itself from the 1998 flop, yet struggles to deliver anything original or unique.

With every advertisement for this film, I found myself growing highly anticipated for this year's monster flick. Not being much of a fan of films such as Transformers or Pacific Rim, it was refreshing to see actors and producers talk up Godzilla as a unique film filled with dynamic characters and very sentimental themes. Much to my surprise, Godzilla did not deliver as was promised. With dull, flat characters, and a thin, convoluted script, Godzilla managed to make me utter words I never thought I would say during a movie; "When are the monsters going to fight?"

This movie was boring. The creature Godzilla was on screen for probably a grand total of ten minutes. Gareth Edwards cites Steven Spielberg's Jaws as an inspiration for his take on Godzilla in that, "the film does not immediately show the beast, but rather build up to its appearance while still delivering an eerie and terrifying off-screen presence." This concept might have worked had there been anything else about the movie which was somewhat enticing.

My first and greatest complaint of this film is its complete lack of character charm or development. One of my favorite aspects of cinema is watching what a great actor can do with a great script, and one of my biggest frustrations is when a film delivers an 'A' list cast with a script so bad that they are limited from performing to their full potential. Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kick-Ass, Savages) and Elizabeth Olsen (Oldboy, Silent House) are both on the rise to becoming some of the next greatest actors of their generation, however both of their characters were so poorly written, that they were dull, bland and boring. Even the great Ken Watanabe (The Last Samurai, Inception) struggled to bring his character to life in multiple dimensions. The gem of the bunch was, not surprisingly, Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad, Argo). Perhaps because everything he touches turns to gold.

Cranston's performance as Joe Brody was riveting. He was deeply emotional, strong and vulnerable. He would have been enough to save this movie, had he been in it for more than twenty minutes. Killing off his character was as stupid as it was meaningless. Cranston being in this movie provided nothing towards the plot. His only use was to lure fans of Breaking Bad into theaters, and to give the audience a brief glimpse of beautiful acting, only to be followed by two hours of pan faced actors who look like they are reading from cue cards.

The writing in this story was tedious, forcing you to endure scene after scene of Aaron Taylor-Johnson conveniently traveling wherever the chaos is occurring and joining with random platoons of soldiers to help them carry out their missions (By the way, that is not how the military works). Watch as Ken Watanabe and David Strathairn (The Bourne Ultimatum, Lincoln) having a seemingly hour long discussion about whether or not Godzilla is bad, which seems redundant as they both are inclined to believe he is good, and whether or not they should kill him, which is futile as we all know that humans cannot kill him.

However boring and dull this movie was, there are still some redeeming qualities. It is apparent that Gareth Edwards is a visionary. Just when you feel like walking out of the theater, he delivers a haunting and enthralling sequence that pushes you to the edge of your seat (i.e. the railroad scene with the flaming train, and the sky diving sequence). These scenes were beautifully shot and made for some iconic sequences, regardless of how random and unavailing they were.

Visually, this film is a masterpiece. Godzilla and the monsters looked terrific. I cannot remember a single point in the film when I thought, "That looks fake." The fight sequences between the monsters, however short, were captivating (It was nice to see a return to Godzilla's atomic fire breath). The score by Alexandre Desplat (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Parts 1 & 2) was majestically woven, securing the tone of each individual scene.

Overall this film was, for me, a step forward from Roland Emmerich's 1998 atrocious remake. However, it was still a letdown, and with such a brilliant cast and such an iconic figure, this film had the all of the elements to make for a great film. It is just a shame it was wasted on such a poor script. I give this film a 6/10.

If you have anything you wish to add to my list of complaints, or you disagree with me on any of my points, feel free to comment below. The beauty of film, and art everywhere, is that it makes for such intriguing discussion.

World's Finest

If I were to ask you who the two most recognized characters in the world are, what would you say? The answer: Superman and Batman. Superman alone has sold more merchandise across the globe than Mickey Mouse. Batman is the poster boy for all comic book heroes. Go anywhere in the world and people know who Superman and Batman are. I was amazed to discover on my trip to Africa that the children there could explain to me in precise detail who Superman was, but had never heard of Santa Claus. It would seem that they are in fact, the World's Finest.

I have many thoughts on Superman and Batman in regards to their upcoming film, and the most commonly asked question in the comic book world... Who would win?

Superman and Batman were the first superheroes to ever be published in comic book history. They were the first superheroes to receive television shows, movies, tin lunch pales etc. Why? Because everyone loves them! Superman is the most powerful man alive. He can lift an entire building off the ground and can move at the speed of light! He can see through walls, freeze things with his breath or melt them with his eyes. Plus, he can fly. He is everything we wish we could be. Plus, he is so humble and caring, that he would never dare to use his powers against humanity. He should be treated as a King, but he only asks to be treated as a friend. And then there is Batman...

Batman is a wonderful counterpart to Superman. He is the exact opposite. He is the peak of human intellect and strength. A master in countless forms of martial arts. This cold, calculated vigilante proves that you don't need superpowers to be a hero. Plus... He is so cool! What man alive doesn't wish he could be Batman? He rarely loses a fight, and if he does, he learns how to defeat his opponent, comes back and whoops their a-- butt.

So it makes sense that people would ask the question, "Who would win in a fight? Batman or Superman?" and to be completely honest... I HATE that question... You know what, never mind, that is a completely justified question. I hate people's responses:
"Batman obviously. All he needs is some kryptonite and he could kill Superman."
"Superman... He can just snap Batman's neck like General Zod."

A fight between Superman and Batman is not going to be settled that easily. Firstly let's take a look at Superman. In every fight in every comic and every movie, Superman holds back. He knows his power and he knows the damage it can cause, therefore he is afraid to use it. When he is fighting an enemy, rarely is he trying to destroy them... He is trying to force them to stop fighting back. However, Superman is lead by his emotions. If he was driven to a point of extreme hatred or rage, it is very possible that he could lose control and beat his enemy to death. So yes, it would seem that Superman could beat Batman in a fight... However Batman isn't like any opponent Superman has ever faced before.

Batman is the greatest tactician alive. If you ever have the opportunity to read the comic book, Batman Hush, I would encourage you to do so. In this comic book, Superman is enchanted by Poison Ivy and is forced to attack Batman and Catwoman. Batman then narrates his step by step process of defeating Superman. I've included a video of the fight below.

"I have to keep him contained so he can't fly. I yell at him to keep him distracted... Time to switch to hypersonics... Now it's about timing..."

Batman knows every move Superman will make before he makes it. But what is extremely interesting is how Batman knows with complete confidence that Superman will break free of Ivy's enchantment if they threaten Lois Lane's life. He wasn't trying to kill Superman. He was trying to help him. Which brings me to my final point... Superman and Batman are best friends.

They fight alongside each other, they trust each other, they love each other. Batman does not want to hurt Superman and Superman does not want to hurt Batman. Which is why both characters will always hold back when they are fighting one another. Sort of like two brothers in a wrestling match. The point is not to defeat, but to force the other one to submit.

The only exception to this has occurred once in the comics. Far in the future in Frank Miller's classic The
Dark Knight Returns. When Superman and Batman absolutely hate each other. It is a well fought battle with a believable ending. I've included the full fight from the animated film adaptation of the comic book below.

Now, to conclude this post I want to talk a little bit about the upcoming Batman vs. Superman film. There are two things I would like to discuss.
1. The lack of trust fans have in Director Zack Snyder, and their disappointment at the lack of Christopher Nolan
2. Their indistinguishable animosity towards Ben Affleck

Now, for those of you who are upset that Christopher Nolan will not be a part of the creative process for Batman vs. Superman and that he is now just an Executive Producer, I say this; SHUT UP. Nolan isn't God. Guess what, he was barely involved in Man of Steel. The studio basically just payed him for his name. And Nolan has made underwhelming films. Let's be honest... Man of Steel was better than The Dark Knight Rises. And he doesn't want to be a part of this series. Why place a project in the hands of someone who doesn't want it... Zack Snyder on the other hand is very passionate about these films.

For all of you comic book fans out there, don't be afraid to have faith in Snyder. Yeah, he has made bad movies (i.e. Sucker Punch, Legends of the Guardians) but he has also made great movies... 300, Watchmen.
If you are afraid that he won't be able to portray Batman adequately, go watch Watchmen. Rorschach was the highlight of that film... Very similar characteristics as Batman. I trust Zack Snyder and I think we can expect a great Batman/Superman movie from him... Maybe even Justice League?

And finally, Ben Affleck. Honestly people, get over Daredevil. That movie had a lot more flaws than Affleck. So don't throw all of the Blame on to him. He is a talented actor, a two-time Academy Award Winner and he has the perfect chin to play Batman... And it isn't like this is some difficult role to take on...Matt Damon said it best, "This isn't Macbeth, its Batman"

If you have any thoughts on the discussion of the age-old question "Who would win in a fight, Superman or Batman," or if you disagree with any of my thoughts about the upcoming film, please comment below, I would love to hear your thoughts.

My Top 10... So Far

For those of you who know me (which I assume is everyone who is reading this blog, as I do not have that great of a following) you know that there is nothing I enjoy more than watching a good movie. Movies have always had an enormous significance in my family. In fact, Oscar Season is basically Christmas Season. Now, another thing that most of you know about me is that I am pretty opinionated... In other words, my opinions can basically be accepted as facts. Now, working at a movie theater has afforded me a wonderful opportunity; I get to go to the movies for FREE!

This year has been a pretty fantastic year for movies, and so on the eve of Oscar Season, I would like to acknowledge my favorite movies of the year so far, most of which will be forgotten once films such as The Wolf of Wallstreet or American Hustle are released.

So here they are; My Top Ten Films of the Year... So Far

10. Man of Steel

"You will give the people of Earth an ideal to strive towards. They will stumble. They will fall. But in time they will join you in the Sun... In time you will help them accomplish wonders."

Directed by: Zack Snyder
Written by: David S. Goyer
Based on characters created by: Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster
Starring: Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Kevin Costner, Diane Lane, Laurence Fishburne, and Russell Crowe as Jor-El
Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence, action and destruction, and for some language

The long awaited retelling of the classic DC Comics hero, Superman, finally arrived this summer, and it delivered exactly what we needed... A Zack Snyder power punch! I believe that putting this film in the hands of Zack Snyder (300, Watchmen) was the greatest decision the studio could have made. Let's face it, when it comes to adapting legendary comics into movies, no one does it better than Zack Snyder.

Snyder brought together one of the best ensembles of the year in this film, carried by the up-and-coming action star, Henry Cavill (Immortals). Though, I believe that this was a lot to place on Cavill's shoulders, as he is relatively young in his career. That is not to say that Cavill's performance as Kal El wasn't great. I believe he brought the character to life in a superb way. The supporting cast, which consists of Oscar Nominees Amy Adams (The Fighter), Michael Shannon (Revolutionary Road), and Diane Lane (Unfaithful) and Oscar Winners Kevin Costner (Dances With Wolves) and Russell Crowe (Gladiator), helped make this movie both emotionally powerful, and entertaining.

There are three aspects to this film I would like to commend.
1. The fight scenes. These are some of the best fight sequences in any superhero film, they did however last very long so that by the end of the movie when Superman finally fights General Zod (which I might add is my favorite fight scene in a superhero movie) the audience had grown tired of watching so much destruction.
2. Michael Shannon as General Zod. Shannon took on the challenging task of re-imagining the infamous Kryptonian General whose shoes were previously filled by the incredible Terrence Stamp in Superman II. Shannon's portrayal of Zod, however, took a much darker turn in this film. He is more relatable, therefore he is more dangerous. He believes he is the hero and he will do whatever it takes to save his people.
3. Russell Crowe as Jor El. The only other actor to play Jor El on the big screen was none other than Marlon Brando (The Godfather) who is arguably the greatest actor of all time. However, Crowe's new take on the character was just as heart-wrenching and inspiring as his predecessor.

9. World War Z

"Every human being we save is one less we have to fight."

Directed by: Marc Forster
Written by: Matthew Michael Carnahan, Drew Goddard, and Damon Lindelof
Based on the novel by: Max Brooks
Starring: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Daniella Kertesz, Pierfrancesco Favino and David Morse
Rated PG-13 for intense frightening zombie sequences, violence and disturbing images

Over the past few years, Brad Pitt has distinguished himself as a stellar producer. Once again, he has proved that he knows how to make a good movie. Going in to this film I was hesitant. This is, after all, a PG-13 Zombie film. "Zombie films are supposed to be R!" I've heard people exclaim. In fact I know a great deal of people who didn't go and see this film just because it was not rated R. However, what I had imagined to be the film's greatest weakness, turned out to be its strength.

Too often do Zombie films or TV shows focus too heavily on the violence, thus providing a weak plot and/or weak characters. I'm sure some of you have heard my harsh criticisms of The Walking Dead. This film does just the opposite. It provides a strong story supported by strong characters played by strong actors. This is not just another Zombie film! This is destined to be a remarkable franchise. For the first time since Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later, I actually cared about the characters in this film.

Now, Brad Pitt alone could have sold me on this movie, however there are many tremendous actors that appear in this film that most people have not heard of. For example, Pierfrancesco Favino as one of the W.H.O. Doctors. I first saw him in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian as the weary and fearful general of Lord Miraz's army. He is a talented actor and his performance in this film is noteworthy to say the least. I was really surprised to see what would seem to be no more than a cameo from David Morse (The Green Mile, Disturbia). This is an actor who deserves a lot of recognition for the dark characters he portrays. In WWZ Morse successfully made me cringe more than any of the zombies in the rest of the movie. Another star cameo is none other than Matthew Fox (LOST) whose character was unfortunately cut from the final edit of the film. You can, however, see him helping Brad Pitt's wife and family onto a helicopter at one point.

This movie was amazing. It was a perfect blend of horror and blockbuster and I highly recommend that you see it.

8. The Wolverine

"Eternity can be a curse. The losses you have had to suffer... A man can run out of things to care for, lose his purpose."

Directed by: James Mangold
Written by: Mark Bomback and Scott Frank
Based on the comic series by: Chris Claremont and Frank Miller
Wolverine created by: Len Weinn and John Romita, Sr.
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Will Yun Lee, Tao Okamoto, Rila Fukushima, Hiroyuki Sanada, Svetlana Khodchenkova, Hal Yamanouchi and Famke Janssen as Jean Grey
Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense sci-fi action and violence, some sexuality and language

I have become very impressed with the decisions 20th Century Fox has made in regards to the X-Men franchise. Most of the time when a franchise has jumped the shark and made a huge flop, the studio just decides to start the series over again with a reboot as we have seen with superhero franchises like Superman, Hulk or Spider-Man. After making two dreadful X-Men movies in a row, X-Men: The Last Stand and X-Men Origins: Wolverine, 20th Century Fox pushed forward and delivered two of the best films in the series; X-Men: First Class and now, The Wolverine. They realize that the fans are more than willing to forgive a studio for a couple bad movies as long as they continue to deliver better movies.

The Wolverine is my second favorite film in the X-Men franchise, right behind X2: X-Men United. Director James Mangold (Walk the Line, 3:10 To Yuma) made a wise move by pushing past the internal conflict of Logan/Wolverine's ignorance as to where he comes from and instead throws the character into new territory. The film takes place a few years after the events of X-Men: The Last Stand. Logan is crippled by the fact that he had to kill the one woman he loved, Jean Grey (Famke Janssen). Haunted be her memory, he lives as an outcast in the wilderness, for there is no place for him anymore. Professor X is dead, and the X-Men are no more.

The film opens up with a horrifying view of the destruction of Nagaski, the likes of which we have never seen before. Logan, a P.O.W. saves a Japanese officer from the ill fate of the atom bomb. This officer's name is Yashida, and he will later go on to become the most powerful man in Japan who sends for Logan on his deathbed, offering him the gift of mortality in exchange for the powers of the Wolverine.

I don't want to give too much away, but this movie is unlike any superhero movie you have ever seen before. It is reminiscent of the Bourne series. Hugh Jackman is in the best shape of his career and delivers his best performance as Logan/Wolverine. This film is a must see, and I am unofficially declaring it the Best Superhero film since The Dark Knight.

7. The World's End

"Tonight, we will be partaking of a liquid - as we wind our way up the Golden Mile commencing with an inaugural tankard in the first post, then on to the old familiar - the good companion, the trusty servant, the two-headed dog, the mermaid, the beehive, the king's head, and the hole in the wall for a measure of the same. All before the last bittersweet pint in that most fateful, the world's end, leave a light on good lady, although we may return with a twinkle in our eyes, we will be in truth blind... Drunk."

Directed by: Edgar Wright
Written by: Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright
Starring: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Martin Freeman, Rosamund Pike, Paddy Considine, Eddie Marsan, with David Bradley, Pierce Brosnan, and Bill Nighy as The Network
Rated R for pervasive language including sexual references

Finally, after six years director Edgar Wright once again teams up with comedians Simon Pegg and Nick Frost to bring us one of the wittiest films of all time. The World's End is the third and final part of Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost's thematic trilogy, The Cornetto Trilogy, which began with Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. This trio has dealt with a Zombie apocalypse and a murderous psychopathic cult, so what's next... Robots!

The World's End is a story about five friends, who in high school unsuccessfully attempted to complete the famous pub crawl, The Golden Mile which consists of twelve pubs. The friends return to the hometown to relive the Golden Mile at the behest of their old ring leader, Gary King (Pegg) who in 20 years has not been able to outlive his glory days of high school or his shame at his failure to complete the pub crawl and reach the final pub, The World's End. However, upon their arrival at their old town, they soon discover that the whole town has been taken over by robots in a Bodysnatcher-esque fashion.

This is perhaps the wittiest film in the Cornetto trilogy, though its plot is considerably weaker than Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. Like the other two films, it is more than just a comedy and addresses some deep human issues. The struggle to let go of your past, and the horror of facing your future.

This film was great. I am determined to watch it again and again, and it has earned its place alongside Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz as a Cult Classic.

6. Captain Phillips

"There's got to be something other than being a fisherman or Kidnapping people."
"Maybe in America, Irish... Maybe in America."

Directed by: Paul Greengrass
Written by: Billy Ray
Based on the Book by: Richard Phillips and Stephan Talty
Starring: Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Barkhad Abdirahman, Michael Chernus, David Warshofsky, Corey Johnson, Mahat M. Ali and Catherine Keener
Rated PG-13 for sustained intense sequences of menace, some violence with bloody images, and for substance use

Captain Phillips is a true story about a cargo ship that is boarded by Somali pirates. The captain of the ship takes extreme measures to protect his crew and prevent the pirates from winning.

I was truly impressed with this film. But what is perhaps the most impressive thing to me about this film, is that the hero, Captain Richard Phillips is a real person. This story is inspirational on a new level. It forces you to ask yourself, 'If I were in his shoes, could I be so selfless when the time came?'

No other actor other than two-time Academy Award Winner and President of the Screen Actor's Guild, Tom Hanks (Forrest Gump, Philadelphia) could have portrayed Captain Richard Phillips with such delicate and emotional charisma. On screen, Hanks enables the viewers to not only observe the situation, but feel it as well. There were times during this film when I wanted to leap out of my chair and run, because I, like the ill-fated captain, felt like I was held prisoner.

I don't understand why the Oscar Nominated director Paul Greengrass (United 93, The Bourne Ultimatum) is not a household name yet. With each film he directs, I am amazed at his talent. His team up with Tom Hanks is sure to earn both men another Oscar nod, and I find it hard to believe that this film will go unnoticed at the Academy Awards this year.

5. Ender's Game

"In the moment when I truly understand my enemy, understand him well enough to defeat him, then in that very moment I also love him."

Directed by: Gavin Hood
Written by: Gavin Hood
Based on the Novel by: Orson Scott Card
Starring: Harrison Ford, Asa Butterfield, Hailee Steinfeld, Viola Davis, with Abigail Breslin and Sir Ben Kingsley as Mazer Rackham
Rated PG-13 for some violence, sci-fi action and thematic material

In the wake of an Alien invasion of Earth, in which Humanity only survived due to the keen intellect and strategic mind of Airforce sergeant Mazer Rackham, played by Academy Award Winner Sir Ben Kingsley (Gandhi), the military has begun a program in which they train children to fight the alien race should they attack Earth again. Ender Wiggin, played by Asa Butterfield (Hugo, The Boy In the Striped Pajamas), is an exceptionally talented boy who is enlisted into a bootcamp in space where he must learn how to discipline his emotions and lead an army.

I first read the novel Ender's Game when I was in fifth grade and I remember thinking, 'Wow, this is really good. They should make this into a movie!' Eight years later and my wish has finally come true. Though I can't complain for having to wait eight years, as some people have been waiting twenty-eight years for this film to be made. When I heard that Gavin Hood was directing this film, I was nervous. His last film, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, had been a massive flop, and I was worried that this director would cause Ender's Game to have the same fate as Logan. However, my concerns were in vain.

This movie was so good. Hood has distinguished himself for bringing together such an amazing cast of supporting actors which include Academy Award Nominees Harrison Ford (Witness), Viola Davis (The Help, Doubt), Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine) and Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit).

Asa Butterfield captures the internal struggle of Ender's compassion and rage. He juggles love and hate in an effort to find the proper balance between the two in order to lead. He realizes that in order to defeat his opponent, he must learn to think like him. But once he understands his opponent, he loves them. Then how can he destroy them.

Harrison Ford brilliantly portrays Ender's commander, Colonel Graff. Ford and Butterfield's onscreen chemistry is the highlight of the film. Witness them debate what is more important; winning the war or the way we win.

4. This Is the End

"Wait a second, I know what happened. You guys dropped acid, didn't you? Craig doesn't have any pants on, he got ****ing wild, probably danced, sweated all over the place. You got white **** all over your mouth, Franco, you probably sucked somebody's ****, Jonah over here probably watched and ****** off. Jay, I didn't even know you were in town, good to see ya."

Directed by: Evan Goldberg & Seth Rogan
Written by: Seth Rogan & Evan Goldberg
Based on the short film, 'Jay and Seth Versus the Apocalypse' directed by: Jason Stone
Starring: James Franco, Jonah Hill, Seth Rogan, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, Craig Robinson, with Michael Cera and Emma Watson
Rated R for crude and sexual content throughout, brief graphic nudity, pervasive language, drug use and some violence

This Is the End is about a group of celebrities who, while attending a party at James Franco's house, are faced with the Biblical apocalypse. Together they must try to hold their own as they attempt to live together. Demons and Hellfire should be least of their concerns as they struggle to live alongside one another. This film is filled with well improvised petty arguments that dig into each actor's feelings, lots of drug humor and a ten minute scene of watching the horrific deaths of countless celebrities, which include Mindy Kaling, David Krumholtz, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Rihannna, Paul Rudd, Kevin Hart, Aziz Ansari, Jason Segal and a hilariously impaled Michael Cera.

When this movie was first announced, I thought it was brilliant. When I saw the first trailer, I thought it was brilliant. When I finally saw the movie.... BRILLIANT! These guys are hilarious to watch. I found myself falling out of my seat in the movie theater I was laughing so hard.

This movie is crude, violent and outlandishly hysterical. If you are a fan of Pineapple Express, Superbad, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, I Love You Man, Knocked Up or The 40 Year Old Virgin, you are going to love this movie. Danny McBride literally brought me to tears in the midst of my laughter. He is a comic genius.

Don't just watch this movie. Buy it, and watch it a million times. And keep an eye out for a special cameo by Channing Tatum, you will laugh your *** off.

3. Prisoners

"Every day she's wondering why I'm not there to ****ing rescue her! Do you understand that? Me, not you! Not you! But me! EVERY DAY! SO FORGIVE ME, FOR NOT GOING HOME TO GET A GOOD NIGHT'S REST!"

Directed by: Denis Villeneuve
Written by: Aaron Guzikowski
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Terrence Howard, with Melissa Leo and Paul Dano
Rated R for disturbing violent content including torture, and language throughout

While the Dovers are celebrating Thanksgiving at the Birch's house, the youngest daughters of both families go missing. Detective Loki (Jake Gyllenhaal) is assigned with the task of finding the girls. He attempts to work with the uncooperative Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) who takes matters into his own hands to get to the bottom of things and find his daughter. However, every character is held prisoner to something in this dark thriller.

I was blown away by some of the performances in this film. Hugh Jackman delivers the performance of his career. Jake Gyllenhaal's disturbingly apathetic performance just might score him an Oscar nod. The same can be said for all of the castmembers in this film.

What stood out to me the most was Paul Dano (There Will Be Blood) as the prime suspect and simple minded Alex Jones. His seemingly innocent demeanor frightens you and makes your blood cold. I do not want to give too much away, as there are many twists and turns in this suspense-driven mystery.

With a star-studded cast, a high-pressured plot, riveting dialogue, and a mind-bending ending, you will want to go back and watch it again, the second it is over. Parents Beware (especially those with young children) this is not an easy movie to sit through.

2. The Conjuring

"Diabolical forces are formidable. These forces are eternal, and they exist today. The fairy tale is true. The Devil exists. God exists. And for us, as people, our very destiny hinges upon which one we elect to follow."

Directed by: James Wan
Written by: Chad Hayes & Carey Hayes
Based on True Events following the lives of the Perrons & Warrens
Starring: Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Ron Livingston, Lili Taylor, Shanley Caswell, Shannon Kook, and John Brotherton

The Conjuring follows the true events of the Perron family and when they bought their dream house in the '70s. Shortly after moving in, they began to notice many insidious spirits threatening the family. Ed and Lorraine Warren are what some call Ghost Hunters or Demonologists. They are called upon by the Perrons and agree to look into the house and try to cleanse it of any demonic activity. Of the countless houses they've cleansed and demonic activity they've faced, this was the most malevolent, so they kept it unrecorded... Until now.

This movie scared the crap out of me. I have to commend James Wan and his vision. This movie takes the horror genre, and demon/ghost movies specifically back to their roots. I can say with complete confidence that this is the scariest movie I have ever seen.

Every aspect of this movie was done brilliantly. Wan uses camerawork and music to carry the setting and disturb the audience. The cast's performances are so perfect, you forget that you are watching a movie.

The Conjuring must be held in as high regard as films such as The Exorcist. If you thought Paranormal Activity was scary, then you won't sleep for days.

1. The Place Beyond the Pines

"If you ride like lightning, you're going to crash like thunder."

Directed by: Derek Cianfrance
Written by: Derek Cianfrance & Ben Coccio & Darius Marder
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, Eva Mendes, Rose Byrne, Ben Mendelsohn, Dane DeHaan, Emory Cohen, with Bruce Greenwood and Ray Liotta as Deluca
Rated R for language throughout, some violence, teen drug and alcohol use, and a sexual reference

And Finally, my favorite film of the year, and it might even be my favorite film of all time... The Place Beyond the Pines. The film follows motorcycle stuntman, Luke, played by Academy Award Nominee Ryan Gosling (Half Nelson), who reconnects with Romina (Eva Mendes; Training Day), an old fling who he had since forgotten. As Luke attempts to reconnect with Romina, he soon discovers he has a baby boy Romina had kept a secret from him. In order to prove to Romina that he has what it takes to support a family, Luke teams up with a poor mechanic,  Robin (Ben Mendelsohn; The Dark Knight Rises) and the two of them begin robbing banks. Things turn awry when ambitious rookie cop, Avery, played by Academy Award Nominee Bradley Cooper (Silver Linings Playbook), attempts to catch Luke and bring him to justice.

This film is perhaps one of the most unique movies I've ever seen. It is a three chapter story that takes on the themes of desperation, corruption, and restitution. Whenever Ryan Gosling makes a movie it is something to take note of. I now believe the same can be said for Bradley Cooper. You need to see this movie. It is a beautifully crafted piece of art, and it will make you question your own moral standards. Gosling and Cooper give incredible performances in this film, and it will leave you questioning what the greatest evil truly is. A man who will steal for money, a man who will lie for power, or a man who will kill for revenge. The truth is, they are all the same in The Place Beyond the Pines.


This is an incomplete list because I have not seen every movie that was released this year. So do me a favor, and COMMENT below if you believe there are any movies that were released this year, 2013 that belong on this list. I may not have seen it, and if you believe it is worthy to be placed on the list, then I want to see it. So, write down the TITLE of the movie and WHY it belongs on the list in the comment section below.

Thanks for reading, and happy movie watching!