Episode IX The Saga of Damage Control

I have not written about The Last Jedi due to not wanting to repeat what most have already said, while I do not agree with the abusive hate directed towards the film's actors, I am at the least a bit irritated with Rian Johnson. I was extremely psyched to hear he would be helming this picture, I loved his early works like Looper and Brick. So I was ready for a much darker take on the Galaxy Far Far Away. What I got was something I did not expect, a film that said screw the storytelling beats that came before it. I do not expect answers to all questions, but what we got was something very strange, and it is something that I think most people are downplaying when talking about the issues with this film, it is not just a few bad scenes in a casino, it is not Rose being a bad actress or the person being bad in any way. The real issue is that the film does not work as a trilogy because of its lack of respect for the story that we started to follow in Episode VII.

Which is why Episode IX is shaping up the be Damage Control The Movie. We did not need every question answered, we did not need a film that followed all the fan theories, all that should have been expected was for the film to continue the story. Simple as that, however what The Last Jedi does is perhaps the height of arrogance. Rian Johnson got the keys to the biggest franchise in history, and instead of taking that responsibility as an honor, he saw it as a chance to defy all conventions, ideals and create a film that is Rian Johnson's Star Wars, not Star Wars. This would not be a problem if the story was truly amazing, but most of the story beats seem to be in place just to do the opposite of what is expected. 

I understand that going against the grain is not a bad thing, hell a lot of great films are made that way, the issue is that this is not a stand-alone story, this the middle part to a trilogy that is meant to begin to bring all the pieces together. Because the final act is always how everything comes together as a whole, which is why questions being answered is not always important. Yet, this film does not simply leave out some questions, it seems to answer them in a way that would be least expected. Yes, we do need to subvert expectations, yet there is an issue when instead of merely doing something original and exciting, you do something just because it's the opposite of expectations. The issue is that it often results in poor storytelling, and bad filmmaking.

For example, setting up Rey to fall for Kylo Ren is an issue because of a key scene in The Force Awakens, Kylo torturing Rey by forcefully entering her mind, may not make her hate him, but trust him? Falling in love with him? Even if this is realistic in some fashion I can not think of, it is a strange move for a strong, independent, female warrior. Even more so when you consider all the scenes alluding to her and Finn falling for each other, yet that is not the big one, that is not the major reason her feelings for Kylo are contradictory at best, and problematic at worst. Kylo betrays and murders his father, Rey at this point in the story's only father or hell even parental figure in general. This was her Obi Wan, yes Luke forgives Vader, but remember that took place in the last film, after developing the characters and their relationship further, giving him a good reason for wanting to trust his "Father". 

What is Rey's reason, I shit you not, I am sorry this bugs me, this brought the film into Twilight Land... He takes his shirt off, and next thing you know she's all in love with him. Ok, it is played with more subtlety than Twilight, but still that is what happens, she really falls for him after seeing him shirtless, I am not making that up, I kinda am laughing as I am writing this though, seriously who thought this was a good idea for a Star Wars film? 

My problems with The Last Jedi are not the one's that most have, my problems are rooted in the fact that we could have had a better film, if Rian Johnson was focused on making a great film period, not his version of Star Wars. Let me also make this very clear, Rose is not a good character, but that has nothing to do with Kelly Marie Tran, she is an actress and simply did what Rian told her to do. So if you have an issue with the film, please do not direct it at people who for all we know, could have said to him, hey this doesn't make much sense, or made suggestions to do it in a different way. What we got was his film, while I am sure he was not the only one with ideas, he was given great control over the story, so it is foolish to blame anyone but him and Kathleen Kennedy whom have the utmost control of the film's development and story.

All the issues that are being directed towards the film's cast, are misdirected in a big way, it is a shame that so many do not understand the actors have little say in the storytelling process. While it differs from film to film, it is clear by Mark Hamil's statements, that Rian was only interested in his vision, and Kathleen Kennedy fully supported and endorsed this. So take your issues up with them, otherwise your just attacking someone for doing their job. The sad problem is that Episode IX is not shaping up much better, though it really has very little to work with.

The next film has to answer the bizarre questions this film raised, like floating Leia... Come on, no one that has watched this film, saw that and went yea, this makes total sense, this is the best way this scene could have been done. Regardless this all means that Episode IX will surely treat VIII's story beats in a similar manner to how VII's was treated. This is clear by the announcement that not only will Luke make a return, but so will Lando and gasp Leia with unseen footage shot for VII & VIII? Did no one think it odd, that JJ will be using footage from VII in IX, instead of footage shot just for VIII. It is clear that he like a lot of us, was underwhelmed by VIII and choose to continue his story and bring it to some sort of conclusion by using what footage he has.

This is not ideal for any filmmaker and creates problems. The real issue being that this film will become the Saga of Damage control. It will retell story ideas brought up in VIII, it will also surely subvert most of Rian's ideas, and bring the ones JJ started in VII back into focus. If anything this should be a lesson to filmmakers that creating a Trilogy, without at the least a roadmap is a bad idea. What you get is a muddled story that simply does not film like the films are parts of one larger story, but pieces that just barely fit together. This Trilogy is written like unplanned sequels, which normally is not a problem except these are numbered films, and the first ended on such a cliffhanger, that it clearly sets the films up as one story, separated by three parts. To me these are the glaring issues with The Last Jedi, not the cast, poor direction and a lack of story continuity is the issue. The film can be enjoyable, yet if you have an issue with it, that is understandable from an objective storytelling perspective.

A film does not have to give answers, but a film that chooses to give answers, or bring new story ideas to the table is open to scrutiny. Even more so, when those answers either make little sense or even seem to be a "Fuck You" to certain story beats. He clearly did not want to follow the story set up in the first part, he clearly wanted to make his own story, and leave his mark on the franchise. This is arrogance, because his ego clouded his judgment in a big way. The issues with the film are only there, because of his agenda, which is not a political one, but one of his own ego. If he was forced to do certain things by Kathleen, he should grow a pair and speak up. Meddling producers are a major factor in the creation of lackluster films, he could easily speak up especially given the failure of Solo. Hell that would be good PR for the damage control campaign Disney seems to be running. 

Yet he has only defended his film, and one only defends their work if they are insecure, or extremely arrogant. His enjoyment at fans displeasure, the joy you see on his face defending this film, to people who are not all angry bitter fanboys, but people who care a great deal about this franchise, who are merely saddened by the lack respect for the story. It shows extreme arrogance on his part, the proof is in the fact that regardless of how Lucas played with the first three films, and the mistakes made in the prequel trilogy, he never came out in defense of his choices like this, he never fed the trolls and hate. Fans bashed him regularly, put the films down constantly, found issues to bring up and he never once acted like Rian has. The reason is clear, he had confidence in his vision, he knew it was bringing joy to a lot of fans so he let the art speak for itself.

Rian is arrogant and I say this as a fan of his work, because he clearly understands the film is lacking, but does not care and will defend how great it is, and how wrong fans are till the day his career is over.  I will gain a lot of respect back for him if I am wrong, and I hope I am wrong. A person who one is happy with their creation, and two cares for the fans will not feed the flames. They will do what they think is best for their art, but that is where it ends. My problem is not so much with The Last Jedi as the person who made it, I think to make petitions over the film is totally silly. It will do nothing and only splits the fandom, also if you have an issue with the film attacking the actors with such hate is ridiculous. 

If you are that passionate, surely you can focus that anger into what is truly the matter with the film. If you hate the film, try to understand what is wrong with it. Though hating a film is strange, I can understand being annoyed with a movie, or even irritation, but the level of hate is strange. Like if you hate it so much, why care. I am only this detailed simply out of a passion for film and storytelling, if film is that passion for you cool, learn about it. Because the people hating Rose, for example are not saying anything reasonable about what is wrong with her character, thinking Finn and Rose's story arc makes little sense because of what we know about Finn from the last film is not wrong. Those are not fan expectations, when a film invests time in developing certain elements and is a part of a three-film arc, it makes perfect sense to think the story should go down a certain road. Because if the car takes a random turn, just to be subversive it becomes disorienting and tends to make little sense in the end. Like the way I just worded that, just to be disorienting and pretentious.

Then you're forced to make a film not to end a story, but to put a story back on track in hopes of finding a decent conclusion. This is worth discussing if you're a fan of cinema, it is interesting to see such a huge franchise come off the rails in such spectacular fashion. However buying figures to destroy them, or directing obscene hate towards an actor, is fucking abhorrent and does no damn good.  It is the reason I choose not to write anything, I choose to stay silent until I had something worth saying, something that is not talked about in regards to the film's issues. I also wanted to put a spotlight on the only real problem with the film, Rian Johnson although it is important to remember what Star Wars is, this is the biggest film franchise in history, any filmmaker given those keys will surely be forced to deal with the responsibility of that kind of power, and how it affects you and your vision. 

I think it makes sense that an independent filmmaker who always had to fight for his films, would be slightly consumed by the power and weight of what he has been asked to do. I think that level of flattery and the oh my god, I am making a Star Wars film would be a very tempting and possibility tainting experience.

Death Wish 2018 Satire or Advert? A Review

Death Wish 2018 (Rated R)

Film is very subjective, so I usually try to write reviews that explain what the film is, and try to explain its pros and cons, not to judge, but so you can decide if the film is worth viewing. Honestly, if my first impressions from the trailers had been correct, I would be writing a scathing hate-filled rant of the raping of a classic.

Surprisingly the film could not have been further from what I expected, for some reason the trailers made the film appear to be similar to Die Hard. In tone at the very least, while it would be brutal it appeared the be an action-packed romp, with a serious and realistic tone meshed with Willis's trademark wit. While that is not far off from what the film is, it is actually closer to a fantastic adaptation of Grand Theft Auto with Death Wish as the basis. The film even references GTA 5, in one of its quick-cut montages that are interspersed throughout the film.

Is this original story-telling? No, in fact, it matches the storytelling style of the first RoboCop film. While the main story of revenge is serious in nature, featuring high stakes, tension, and some very brutal violent sequences. It often cuts to the media and society's reactions to the actions of the film. While many thought the film was going to be a glowing endorsement of gun culture, it is closer to an honest look at these ideas, with a comedic and thrilling tone, than an advertisement for Guns and Ammo.

The film is glorifying gun culture and violence in many early scenes, showing Bruce learn how to properly shoot, load and operate a handgun. It is how he learns to do these things that makes the films true stance on the matter clear. While the film is not anti-gun, it is showing how insane the countries obsession with these items are, and how easy it is to find dangerous information online. The film handles these messages with subtlely, allowing a fun B styled revenge flick, but one that tries to address some serious issues, that these films often avoid.

The film, however, has two faults keeping it from properly getting its ideas across to the entire audience. The first issue has more to do with today's audience than anything else, the film is subtle in its satire so that it does not beat you over the head with a social message. One scene involving a shootout in a Club's restroom felt extremely timely. I can not see how anyone could view that scene, and think an armed hero would do more than cause additional harm.

Good art can be viewed as entertainment alone, at least that is how I view good art. Someone should be able to watch a film and be able to largely ignore its message, and still be entertained. Yet, a film dealing with this type of material in today's world is a tricky subject, I felt very nervous writing my Novella, that was a Death Wish inspired tale. I do not think we should stop making crass, loud, or art that shows ideals that are not morally good, or ones that are at least questionable.

When you do this, you provide cathartic entertainment to some who need violent entertainment as a positive outlet, you also create a film that will spark a conversation. You do this by making the film stand in the middle ground, in its story at the very least. It is great to make your opinion on those ideas clear, but it should not impede the story, or be the focus of the story. Rather it should be integrated in a seamless manner, that fits the tone of the film, in this case, a hybrid revenge thriller satire.

While the film is not perfect, it is a great conversation piece and a damn enjoyable revenge thriller. If you love the films of the 70's and 80's, this is right up your alley. It just happens to not only uses satire as a form of comedic relief, but to show you can make these types of films today, with purpose and still make a film that will appeal to those who love genre piece like this.

Sucker Punch Extended Cut, Baked Cinema Review

Sucker Punch Extended Cut Review (Rated R)

This film holds a unique place in my heart; I was very excited to see it when it came to theaters, a few years ago. Still, as much as I enjoyed the experience in the cinema; the film felt like something was missing. Like the films very soul was gutted, the theatrical cut is an exciting and an entertaining film; and I appreciated it. But once I saw the Extended Cut during its home video debut, it all made since. I had greatly anticipated this film; and I knew that while it was a simple story, some of its emotional depth was stolen to secure a PG-13 rating. Which sadly, hurt the film tremendously. 

People were disappointed when the film originally came out; and while I did enjoy and indeed love the film. I too felt like we had not seen the full story; while I was disappointed, maybe I even felt a bit cheated. The studio copped out on the rating; thinking this film would sell to teenage boys, because of the sex and violence. However, this is not the standard sexy, flashy action mess that sells well to that audience. They will totally miss the point of the story; they won't understand the metaphors and the main message. Which is what makes the film so engaging and memorable. 

Unlike most summer blockbusters; Sucker Punch actually gives great context and reason for the epic fantasy set pieces. Specifically, this new longer cut of the film, which expands the story making the main message far clearer. It is not a super deep or complex story; the themes are simple and it may even be blunt at times. Yet, if you do not pay attention to the film, you will miss out on things that give the outlandish sequences meaning. Admittedly, it may just be a great excuse to show cool action scenes. But, they at least came up with an artistic and original reason for the action in the film. I found the themes relatable and meaningful.

I also loved the use of music as a way to tell the story; you're not just hearing the story through dialogue, you are understanding the emotions of the scene, and the meaning they are meant to convey. Through the carefully synced music and onscreen visuals, this is music video style story telling; but here it is used effectively. For me the way these scenes were constructed, made them flow organically with the soundtrack. The opening ten minutes are mostly silent; with the expectation of the haunting music accompanying these larger than life scenes. Now yes I obviously inhaled during the film, but I will inform you this is my first time viewing the film "baked". So while I have a better perception of the film now; I always thought this was an excellent dark fairy tale. 

 

This is a modern day fairy tale; it has all the necessary qualities. A fairy tale should be fantastical, exciting entertainment; but it also needs a message. They should capture your imagination as well as your heart. You should as the kids say these days "catch feelings". Yes, that was a lame and corny attempt at humor; but at least I tried. Damn, I caught "the feelings". In any case, this is a very emotional; yet completely engaging and exciting piece of entertainment. I am not trying to give it more credit than it is due, it deserves it and then some. Only the poor choice to cut the film, to secure a lower rating, hurt the film's credibility.

I do not blame anyone who saw the PG-13 theatrical cut and though it was a jumbled mess. While, I will say that even in the watered down cut; you could see the potential in the story and the ideas. But, sadly they were not fleshed out enough, so most people just assumed there was nothing beneath the surface. What is even sadder, is that the majority of the cut scenes did not feature much more graphic sex or violence. No instead the cut scenes fleshed out the story, and added depth to the story's emotion; giving a much greater context to the fantasy elements of the story.

In the directors R-rated cut, the message and deeper meaning behind the fantasy sequences is explained. Not directly or blatantly, but cleverly and with subtly; still it is clear and easy to comprehend. The message may be simple, but it was delivered surprisingly well. It is a very dark story; a story of survival, justice and doing what is right. It shows that ultimate victory has a high price; because sometimes victory, true victory is not a simple happy ending. But it shows you can never give up, and that help can come from the most unexpected places. Most of all, that our power comes from within ourselves. This stuff is simple and some may say uninspired, but I appreciated the unique angle the film took.   

This is the reason why I enjoy and appreciate this film so much because few films tackle depression and mental anguish like this film did. You can say I'm reading too much into this; that the film is not that deep. But, the film gives enough context while still leaving things ambiguous enough, to leave it open to the viewer's interpretation. Which are the kind of films I like, I like films that make me think, and that is why I love "baking" while I watch. I get more engaged, and sucked into the film. In fact, I didn't even analyze the film after viewing; all these thoughts just naturally occurred with that special green "buddy" of mine. Do you get it? Do ya? OK, I'll stop, sorry guys, I let you down. See you in the next paragraph. 

While the film could be considered shallow compared to more classic cinema; the fact is, this is one of the more inspired and well thought out films of the past decade. Certainly one of the most underrated of the last decade. The film also is heavily influenced by Anime; as a matter of fact, this is basically a live action anime. It has all the main ingredients; over the top action and melodrama, coupled with a dark and melancholy story line. The film's art direction is also a vital part of the storytelling, as the colors and lighting of a scene is dependent on the tone of that story element. Sucker Punch may not be one of the best films of the decade; but it is without a doubt, a very underrated one.  

I love the reason and context for this film's most spectacular scenes; I love that the film tries to give meaning to every scene, even if it is relatively simple. The story and themes may not be appealing to everyone, But it is a film that I know will click with a great number of people. I know my appreciation of the film, is due to how much I could relate to it. I wish they would have released this version as the theatrical cut; Because while it could be shallow to some, I think the message of the film is timely and made for a more poignant piece of entertainment than most. 

(My goal with all of my content, is to create reliable information that is also entertaining. Most people write things to tell you what to think. My goal is to inspire you to form your own opinion. If you agree with me, that's awesome. But, if I entertained you or made you think, then my my mission was accomplished.)