We Will be getting “Blade Runner: 2049” & a remake of “Dune” within the next few Years

I’ve always known that there was an upcoming “Blade Runner” sequel in production and when the teaser trailer for its sequel came out a couple days ago, I was floored. We are only given bits and pieces of information but the look and overall tone was spot on. We still see the fictional city of future Los Angeles from the original contrasted with Officer K’s (Ryan Gosling) journey and eventual meeting with Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford). The strongest visual element is the use of color to invoke a feeling in these settings – the city is met with a blue hue as the fog envelopes its residents and the seemingly outskirts of said city is met with a burnt orange filter. It’s an often overlooked film aspect but could be telling in how perspectives collide. After all, Deckard’s experiences in the original would likely alter him significantly.

*Oh, and let’s not forget about the use of musical cues and the eventual rise/homage to Vangelis’ memorable score.

Anyway, the loose synopsis of the sequel set 30 years in the future from the original is as follows:

“A new blade runner (a guy that hunts down replicants) LAPD Officer K, unearths a long buried secret that has the potential to plunge what’s left of society into chaos. K’s discovery leads him on a quest to find Rick Deckard, a former LAPD blade runner who has been missing for 30 years” (Warner Bros. Pictures).

The film is directed by Denis Villeneuve who is coming off the stellar “Arrival” film. He also directed “Prisoners” and “Sicario”. He’s a giant sci-fi fan so seeing him tackle these high profile films is very refreshing. Not only that but Villenueve seems to understand that a film’s key to success rests with the story and/or message. His superb direction and attention to detail make him the only candidate to create a worthy sequel to a beloved, transcendent sci-fi classic film.

Note: “Blade Runner” was based from the book by Philip K. Dick titled “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?”

Note: The director even stated that he has so many ideas of how to expand the “Blade Runner” universe. So, if this sequel takes off, we will likely see more films in the future.

Note: The score for the ‘2049’ will be created be Johan Johannson, who has worked with Villenueve on his previous films. The Icelandic composer actually won a Golden Globe for best original score for “The Theory of Everything” in 2014.

The film’s release date is October, 6, 2017.

Ok, so the other news that has me even more giddy is a remake of “Dune”, based on the Frank Herbert sci-fi novel masterpiece. I’ll even go so far as to say that I loved David Lynch’s take on the material in the 1984 film but it was far from perfect. The premise and actual message (from Herbert’s material) is the huge selling point here.

In November, Legendary Pictures announced that they bought the rights to the “Dune” books and had big plans, which included a feature film and potentially a TV series. Variety broke the news that Denis Villeneueve is going to direct the film. Yes, the same director of “Blade Runner: 2049” is going to do another sci-fi spectacle? In fact, in an interview with the director four months ago with Variety, he stated as such:

I had been wanting to do sci-fi for a very long time. 2001: A Space Odyssey is a movie that really impressed me as a teenager. And also Blade Runner. And Close Encounters of the Third Kind is also one of my favorites. I’m always looking for scifi material, and it’s difficult to find original and strong material that’s not just about weaponry. A longstanding dream of mine is to adapt “Dune,” but it’s a long process to get the rights, and I don’t think I will succeed. Also I would love to write something myself. I have two [scifi] projects right now that are in very [early] stages. It’s too early to talk about them.

It seems as though Villeneuve is the new ‘it’ director, especially in the realm of the sci-fi genre. It’s strange to think that he was once considered to direct one of the new “Star Wars” movies. Perhaps the reason he declined is because of the lack of creative control he would have – see: Gareth Edwards and “Rogue One” (the film went through re-shoots and even the ending was changed).

In any case, sci fi fans should rejoice with this news. It appears as though these cherished properties will get a much needed reimagining. I know that there’s an overabundance of sequels and remakes but these are actually warranted. With the “Blade Runner” sequel, we can relish in that universe and explore all sorts of ethical dilemmas. In regards to a “Dune” remake, we can take better stock of what did not work with Lynch’s film (which, to be fair, was due to heavy studio interference) and make it better. Moreover, a remake can better adhere to the book with its socio-political and philosophical messages.

The Dumbification of Hollywood Films

“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”, “Warcraft”, “X-Men: Apocalypse”, “Suicide Squad”, “Ghostbusters”(2016), “Independence Day 2”, “Avengers: Civil War” and “Rogue One”. What do these all have in common? They are all big-budget studio films that are built with or on a foundation of a franchise. These ‘tent pole’ films are being produced without an inkling of originality or creativity. Yes, I know that Hollywood is a business but they are at the point of ‘wanting’ money rather than ‘needing’ it. How many remakes, reboots, sequels and prequels do we need before we actually stop going to the theaters and churning out money for an overpriced ticket?

The more films that are watched at home, the less likelihood that there will be those that go out (to the theaters) to see movies like “The Artist” or “Moonlight”. To most, these are not ‘event’ movies to spend ten plus dollars on. Those smaller budgeted movies are at the mercy of limited marketing because studios would rather promote the next superhero movie. Moreover, these ‘event’ movies keep conversations going. Talking “Star Wars” or the latest superhero movie, makes one ‘in the know’, at least pop culturally. More often than not, big budget movies are surface level films that would rather appeal to your eyes rather than your feelings.

The biggest problem actually rests with audiences. They haven’t wised up to this ‘dumbification’. Funny enough, we are at a point where we accept films as good when we are not being critical enough to make films themselves more accountable. I was utterly shocked when there were those (not all) that heralded the narrative mess of “Suicide Squad” and most recently “Rogue One”, the most force fed (no pun intended) nostalgia trip that didn’t bother to provide any character development whatsoever. You may not agree with me but the same rationale applies to the continual release of “Transformers” movies. We want a visual overload without any context and boy, are we getting it. These ‘franchise’ films are scheduled out until 2021. Doesn’t that bother you? It should. The studios are so cocky with their properties. These franchises already have embedded audiences, especially whenever they see “Star Wars” or “Harry Potter” font gracing their movie trailers.

This could be a lose/lose situation ultimately. On one hand, the movie theater experience rivals any home theater option but we are continually getting big-budgeted, uninspired movies. However, should we wise up and hold our films more accountable, the more likely the movie theater experience could vanish all together.

It really comes down to the style versus substance debate. You can marvel at pretty explosions and special effects that help feed your escapism or you can relish in cleverly told stories that are relevant, heartfelt and stand the test of time. For it is the examination of the human condition that propagates the willingness to take upon different perspectives of us and the world in which we live.

Come on, do you really think “Avatar” is a good movie?

The “Spider-Man Homecoming” Trailer Will Make Your Senses Tingle

Hot off the presses, we have an official trailer for Spider-Man Homecoming. That fact in and of itself is exciting. It’s a tangible sign that a Spider-Man movie with Marvel’s involvement is actually happening. Whether it lives up to expectations? We’ll have to wait and see, as the trailer doesn’t give much away.

Audiences loved Tom Holland as Spider-Man in The Avengers: Civil War. His funny, youthful take is refreshing. His solo movie looks to be no different, though still full of the standard crime and villain fighting fare. The new innovation looks to be his high school life and his relationship with Tony Stark, which can be a bit awkward at times. It’s also clear that deep down, Peter Parker is still just a kid lusting after Mary Jane Watson. Will he ask her to Homecoming?

Spider-Man Homecoming hits theaters July 7, 2017.

 

 

New “Wonder Woman” Trailer is Visually Arresting!!!

Check out the spectacular new trailer for the anticipated movie below!

 

The film is directed by Patty Jenkins (“Monster”) and stars Gal Gadot (as Wonder Woman), Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Connie Nielsen, and David Thewlis. It is set for release on June 2nd, 2017.

‘The Flash’ Director Rick Famuyiwa is Out. Does it Mean Anything?

In what could be a foreboding sign for the future of the DC cinematic universe, The Flash has now lost two Directors. Courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter, news came on Halloween day that Scott Famuyiwa is no longer the Director of the upcoming The Flash movie that was scheduled for release in 2018. Famuyiwa left the movie due to alleged creative differences.

Famuyiwa most recently directed Dope, a fun and relevant coming-of-age movie for the 21st century. He recently told The Hollywood Reporter that he had been looking forward to making The Flash:  “When I was approached by Warner Bros. and DC about the possibility of directing The Flash, I was excited about the opportunity to enter this amazing world of characters that I loved growing up, and still do to this day.” 

He also reportedly had the following to say: “I pitched a version of the film in line with my voice, humor and heart. While it’s disappointing that we couldn’t come together creatively on the project, I remain grateful for the opportunity. I will continue to look for opportunities to tell stories that speak to a fresh generational, topical and multicultural point of view.”

While the specific factors that went into the creative differences weren’t revealed, it’s fair to wonder what Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment were expecting out of a Director who could have given The Flash a fresh and vibrant take on a major DC Comics character. Reading between the lines, because Famuyiwa specifically mentioned that his vision was in line with what we’ve seen previously on the big screen, it’s also fair to infer that the studio may have rejected a more vibrant and humorous iteration of The Flash.

That’s not surprising, considering DC Entertainment’s widespread reputation for producing “grimdark” superhero movies that are devoid of fun and hope. It’s a reputation that Geoff Johns, Jon Berg, Zack Snyder, and Deborah Snyder have reportedly been looking to change. But the news that Famuyiwa’s vision was rejected makes one consider just how far DC is willing to go to try to lighten things up. Right now, in the wake of this news, it seems that attempts to lighten the tone of the DC movies will be largely superficial and that the tone will not change in any material way.

A new Director hasn’t been announced yet, so while it feels unlikely in this moment, it is still a possibility that whoever replaces Famuyiwa could potentially be an even better fit. Personally, I was looking forward to his take because he has the proven talent to make the kind of superhero movie that many DC movie fans have been craving. As usual, we’ll have to wait and see. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding.

 

 

X-23 Debuts in the Trailer for ‘Logan’, Hugh Jackman’s Last Wolverine Movie

On March 3, 2017, Hugh Jackman will star in a Wolverine movie for the last time. That movie is Logan, featuring an older, more weary Wolverine. If the comics are any indication to go by, his healing factor has been significantly reduced.

The trailer depicts a desert-like post-apocalyptic setting devoid of most mutants while Johnny Cash’s rendition of Hurt aptly plays over everything. There are two other mutants joining Wolverine in the movie, however: Patrick Stewart’s Professor X and Wolverine’s female clone X-23, played by Dafne Keen.

Besides being a clone, X-23 was raised to be an evil assassin. In the trailer, we see that Professor X helps make the case for being a positive mentor for X-23. But it won’t be easy, as there will inevitably be some conflict along the way.

Will X-23 carry the Wolverine torch going forward in the Marvel Cinematic Universe? It’s tough to say. At the very least, she’s a welcome addition to the array of heroes.

One thing’s for sure. Everything about this movie looks amazing.

“Captain Planet” to become a Live Action Movie – But with a Twist!

Not only are we getting a live action movie about the cartoon superhero but it will be produced by none other than Oscar Winner (and Environmentalist), Leonardo DiCaprio.  “Scream Queens” writers Glen Powell and Jono Matt will be providing the screenplay. The Hollywood Reporter also cited that the film will take place years later from the TV series and feature a ‘washed up’ Captain Planet who really needs the help of the ‘planeteers’ to get back to doing what he does best.

“The Power is yours!” Oh, who can forget the beloved cartoon series? “Captain Planet and the Planeteers” (1991-1992) and “The New Adventures of Captain Planet” (1993-1996) revolve around five young adults (from around the world) who are given power rings – four controlling the elements of nature: Earth, Wind, Water, Fire and the fifth controlling the element of Heart. They are given these from the spirit of the Planet, Gaia. When the team of ‘planeteers’ have a rough go at it, they can combine their powers to summon Captain Planet who has all of their powers but magnified.

I like to remember how cheesy the cartoon was. Oh, and who can forget that hilarious Don Cheadle skit from Funny or Die? Check it out below.

 

Anyways, the TV series emphasized the dangerous impact we have on our environment while also emphasizing ways to better interact with our environment – like solar power and other green technologies.  After every episode, the planeteers offered ways to become part of the solution.

Note: DiCaprio has also made it his mission to spread awareness of how fast the world is changing due to human influence. He made a documentary titled, “The 11^th Hour” in 2007 and has the intriguing climate change documentary, “Before the Flood”, set to debut on the National Geographic Channel on October 21^st.

I will most certainly welcome a live action Captain Planet movie. Not only is there a nostalgic trend for remakes/reboots but the hero can take the center stage and promote awareness to the many issues we continue to face as a human race.

New “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” Trailer Released

The new trailer for the highly anticipated prequel to “Star Wars: A New Hope” dropped today and provided plenty to chew on. Check out the trailer below!

 

The story takes place immediately before ‘A New Hope’ as unlikely heroes comes together to steal the plans for the Empire’s Death Star. In this new trailer, we get a better understanding that it was Jyn Erso’s father that made the Death Star possible. Of course, he was likely forced to create the ultimate weapon by the Empire – led by Orson Krennic and Darth Vader.

This first stand-alone Star Wars Anthology film stars Felicity Jones (“The Theory of Everything”), Diego Luna (“Milk”), Ben Mendelsohn (“Bloodline”, “The Dark Knight Rises”), Donnie Yen (“Ip Man”), Mads Mikkelsen (“Hannibal”, upcoming “Doctor Strange”), Alan Tudyk (“Firefly”), Jiang Wen, and Forest Whitaker (“The Last King of Scotland”).

The film is directed by Gareth Edwards (“Godzilla” reboot, “Monsters”) and written by Chris Weitz (“About a Boy”) and Tony Gilroy (“Bourne” series) and is set for release December 16, 2016.

 

“John Wick 2” Teaser Trailer Looks Like a High Octane Thrill Ride!

Ladies, you may wanna stay home for this one. Keanu Reeves’ gun toting hero returns where the bullets are expected to fly even higher than the surprise 2014 hit, “John Wick”. This time it looks like he’s gonna bring all-out war to a league of assassins in Rome, Italy. We have some familiar faces – Ian McShane, John Leguizamo, Lance Reddick along with some new ones – Laurence Fishburne (Morpheus and Neo reunite!), Ruby Rose, Peter Stormare, Common, Bridget Moynahan, and even Franco Nero (the original Django).

Check out the action packed trailer below!

 
 
 

According to Collider, the films synopsis is as such:

Legendary hitman John Wick is forced back out of retirement by a former associate plotting to seize control of a shadowy international assassins’ guild. Bound by a blood oath to help him, John travels to Rome, where he squares off against some of the world’s deadliest killers.
 

The film has Chad Stahelski returning to the director’s chair and is written by Derek Kolstad. The film is set for release on February 10, 2017.

Brad Pitt’s latest,”Allied”, trailer drops!

Upon seeing the initial promotions for this film, I was not in the slightest bit impressed. However, after viewing this trailer, I am most eager to check this one out. What at first seems like a linear love story is rattled and twisted into a paranoia spy thriller. The story takes place in Casablanca during World War II and also features Marion Cotillard, Lizzy Caplan, Matthew Goode, Charlotte Hope and Jared Harris.

Check out the trailer below!

 

The film is directed by Robert Zemeckis (“Flight”, “Back to the Future”) from a script by Steven Knight (“Peaky Blinders”, “Eastern Promises”, “Locke”). It is set to open in nationwide on November 23, 2016.