[8.75/10] The Amazing Spider-Man [3D] (2012)

The Amazing Spider-Man [3D] (2012)

Brief review: Let's be clear - this ain't a remake of Sam Raimi's version from ten years ago, simply because Raimi didn't invent the story - Marvel did. Therefore, Webb's "The Amazing Spider-Man" should be considered a reboot, and as such, it takes the franchise to whole new heights. Yes, it comes way too soon and it's far from necessary, but the new director Marc Webb manages to refresh the series and put his own cool spin on it, in a way no one had expected. Аpart from the lack of originality, "The Amazing Spider-Man" is not only way slicker in execution and technically superior to the 2002's "Spider-Man", but also bigger, better, smarter, funnier and much more accomplished. Eat your heart out, Sam Raimi! Webb skilfully balances strong character development with thrillingly innovative action, and his uber-stylish direction features an exceptionally dynamic and diverse camera work that sets the energetic pace of the movie. The humorously witty script contrasts with the dark visuals, which are absolutely stunning, and the use of 3D is effective, without being overpowering. As Spider-Man, Andrew Garfield is much more engaging and sympathetic than Tobey Maguire, not to mention the incredible Emma Stone, who draws the viewer's attention every time she shows up on screen. Compared to Dr. Octopus from "Spider-Man 2", the Lizard is not as memorable, but is still a decent and worthy enough villain.

Overall summary: Although it comes only 10 years after the 'original', "The Amazing Spider-Man" not only does Marvel's original story justice, but surpasses Sam Raimi's version in terms of execution, visuals, acting, entertainment value, action and CGIs, as it's amazing indeed.

[8.75/10] Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (2011)

Mission: Impossible -
Ghost Protocol (2011)

Brief review: Say hello to the forth, and arguably the best, installment into the "Mission: Impossible" franchise, helmed by the Oscar-winning animation director, Brad Bird, who manages deliver one of the most genuinely entertaining action movies of the past few years, thanks to a witty script, fast-paced plot, startling action and interesting dynamics between the characters. "M:I - Ghost Protocol" is Bird's first full-length live-action film in his career, and he really displays some amazing talent here. His clever direction certainly has the 'WOW' factor, featuring lots of creative camera angles, vigorous, almost impossible camera movements and a level of diversity that will leave you stunned. The stupendous action set-pieces and the incredible stunts are just some of the many highlights of this brilliantly-executed action blockbuster. Set in Moscow, Dubai and Mumbai, "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol" is a true breath of fresh air in terms of settings and visuals in general, and also a true feast for the eyes. The cast is top-notch and the characters are colorful. Tom Cruise is in top form here, and he yet again delivers a believable action star. Paula Patton is fantastic as the tough, yet alluring agent Jane, Jeremy Renner is solid as the new member of the team, William, the hilarious Simon Pegg delivers tons of good laughs, and "Millennium"'s own, Michael Nyqvist, turns in a great villain here.

Overall summary: Featuring cleverly inventive direction, great cast, amusing dialogues, stunningly gorgeous locations and spectacular action sequences, "M:I - Ghost Protocol" is better, funnier, more exciting and entertaining than its three predecessors put together.

[8.75/10] The Adventures of Tintin [3D] (2011)

The Adventures of Tintin [3D] (2011)

Full review: Based on a series of Belgian comic books of the same name, created by Hergé, "The Adventures of Tintin" is the first animated film in Steven Spielberg's long and enormously successful career, and thanks to his experience and undeniable directing talent, his debut animated feature hardly disappoints. Spielberg once again does wonders, combining his directing versatility with the strength of an old school storytelling and contemporary 3D and CGI techniques, to deliver one of the most spectacular cinematic experiences of the year. Minor flaws aside, "The Adventures of Tintin" is everything an animated movie should be - it's entertaining, briskly-paced, absorbing, enjoyable, funny and charming, but most importantly, it has a great sense of adventure to it, something that most movies seem to be lacking these days. The story itself is exciting, unpredictable and brilliantly-executed, and the dialogues are smartly-written, and full of witty lines and clever jokes, that will make you either smile or laugh hard. That's right, there's never a dull moment in this movie, and that's something that both, those familiar with the material, and those who have never heard of Tintin before, will be pleased and happy with. Moreover, "The Adventures of Tintin" offers some of the best animation ever put on film, because here, the CGI work is an absolute technical marvel! The animation itself is so slick and beautifully-crafted, and the attention to detail in some shots is so impressive, it truly feels like you're watching a live-action movie. Some of the graphics are simply a work of art, with the rich and breathtaking CGI scenery of Bagghar being the visual highlight of this stunning-looking movie. The use of 3D is just as superb, and certainly adds depth to the already gorgeous visuals. Each and every one of the characters is as wonderfully-designed as enchanting, plus, their 'animated' movements are unbelievably smooth and realistically fluid. The voice work is also exceptional. Jamie Bell's voice has so much character, and his tone is so cheerful and lively, he breathes life into our charming protagonist effortlessly. The amazing Andy Serkis gives another stirring voice performance as Captain Haddock, Daniel Craig delivers as Red Rackhamand, and the always funny Pegg/Frost duo do an excellent job voicing the hilarious twin detectives Thomson and Thompson.

Overall summary: Adventurous, hugely enjoyable, utterly enthralling and stunningly-animated, this impressive first-ever animated film, directed by the mastermind Steven Spielberg, should have been called "The Amazing Adventures of Tintin", as it's absolutely extraordinary in every way, and undoubtedly, the best animated feature of 2011.

[8.75/10] Contagion (2011)

Contagion (2011)

Full review: One of the finest film-makers in history of cinema, Steven Soderbergh, brings us his latest sci-fi horror thriller that follows the rapid progress of a lethal indirect contact transmission virus, which kills within days, and an international team of doctors who struggle to deal with the outbreak. "Contagion" is so much more than just another 'deadly virus' movie. It's a social horror that warns us about many little, yet important things in life we barely pay attention to, such as basic hygiene habits, washing our hands, touching our face and having contact with dirty surfaces like door-handles, elevator buttons and bus hand grips. Probably the best thing about "Contagion" is that absolutely nothing about it feels exaggerated or implausible. The movie believable and incredibly realistic from beginning to the end, and that's what makes it as disturbing and terrifying as it is. If something like this happen in real life, this is exactly how things will look like - panic, chaos, fear and frustration among the population, and millions of dead people. Considering Soderbergh's pedantry as a director, unsurprisingly the technical aspects of the movie are just as brilliant. His direction is taut, sharp and near flawless, and deftly balances a few parallel plots that blend together exceptionally well. The pacing is smooth, the editing is pitch-perfect, the original music score is phenomenal, and the movie itself is gripping, cleverly-written and absolutely riveting. Shot in various different locations, "Contagion" is as visually versatile as it gets. The settings are as breathtaking as they're grim and realistically post-apocalyptic, and director's trademark 'hot/cold' type of cinematography alternates bright, yellow-tinted scenes with muted blue-tinted ones. The true highlight of the movie is definitely the final "Day 1" scene, which is fantastically-shot and delivered, and gives answers to many unanswered questions about the virus and its spreading. The film has a stellar ensemble cast that includes one of the best actors and actresses working today, and their performances are so as equally as good, that nobody really outshines anybody else. Well, almost. Gwyneth Paltrow gives a great and very credible performance as the Beth Emhoff - a working mother from Minneapolis, who is also the supposed patient zero. Matt Damon is far from amazing, but he gives an above average performance as Beth's husband and caring father, Mitch. Marion Cotillard once again proves she's a true chameleon, and does a fantastic job in her role as Dr. Leonora Orantes, and Laurence Fishburne is typically solid as Dr. Ellis Cheever. Jude Law also delivers as the bold and cocky blogger Alan Krumwiede, but it's the sensational Kate Winslet that pretty much steals the show as the dedicated, fearless and determined Dr. Erin Mears. The supporting cast is just as great, with Jennifer Ehle, Monique Gabriela Curnen and Bryan Cranston being the standouts.

Overall summary: Brilliantly-filmed, contagiously-compelling, subtly-terrifying, and elevated by its top-notch cast and intelligently-written script, "Contagion" is not only one of Soderbergh's most remarkable achievements, but also ranks amongst the best and most memorable virus-themed movies ever created.

[8.75/10] Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I (2010)

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows:
Part I (2010)

In the first installment of the two-film adaptation of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows", the long-feared war has begun and Voldemort's Death Eaters seize control of the Ministry of Magic and even Hogwarts, terrorizing and arresting anyone who might oppose them. But the one prize they still seek is the one most valuable to Voldemort: Harry Potter. Harry's only hope is to find the Horcruxes before Voldemort finds him. As he searches for clues, he uncovers the legend of the Deathly Hallows. And if the legend turns out to be true, it could give Voldemort the ultimate power he seeks. No longer just a boy, Harry Potter is drawing ever closer to the ultimate battle with Voldemort. "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" is certainly not about fancy magic tricks, light-hearted humor or Triwizard Tournaments, as it's the darkest, scariest, and most mature and intense installment in the popular franchise. David Yates sticks to the books much as possible, making sure he satisfies all desires of the hardcore Potter fans, as well as adding enough action, drama and suspense so that filmgoers from any age can enjoy this marvellous experience. The story is more serious and grim, yet emotional, full of hope, love and bittersweet moments. "Deathly Hallows: Part 1" is also well-edited and smoothly-paced, and although it drags a bit in the middle, it picks up nicely at the end. Acting-wise, this installment is probably the strongest of all. Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson have come a long way since the first film, and it shows that over the series, their acting skills developed vastly. They're all great as our three likable protagonists. Ralph Fiennes is very convincing and downright creepy as Lord Voldemort, Julie Walters is incredible as the delightfully evilicious Molly Weasley, Helena Bonham Carter delivers a show-stealing performance as the fierce and vicious Bellatrix, and Dobby, voiced by Toby Jones is adorable as always. All other supporting actors are very good as well, but special mentions go to Bill Nighy and Rhys Ifans. I wasn't really pleased with David Yates' direction and visual style in his previous two "Harry Potter" installments, but I have to admit, he really outdone himself this time, as technically and visually, "Deathly Hallows: Part 1" is absolutely outstanding! Yates provides both, fast-paced direction during action scenes, and some very subtle and sophisticated shots during its dramatic moments. The scenery is completely unbelievably gorgeous and David Yates himself is clearly aware of this, as he offers us countless spectacular shots from various difficult angles. His panoramic shots are as stunning and beautiful as his detailed close-up shots. Eduardo Serra's dark-toned cinematography defines the grim and 'creepy' look of the film, and despite its subtle, muted color scheme, "Deathly Hallows: Part 1" is always appealing and fascinating to watch. Although the action is not the main factor in "Deathly Hallows: Part 1", the action sequences are brilliantly-staged, superbly-shot, exciting, intense and heavily laden with eye-popping special effects. Speaking of special effects, the CGIs in this installment are absolutely flawless, perfectly-done and arguably the best in the series. The animated part, which tells the legend of the Deathly Hallows is nothing short of stunning, as it provides dark and grim, yet spectacular graphics and amazingly-compelling visual storytelling, that leave you breathless and thoroughly entertained. Darkly compelling, beautifully-executed and visually-striking, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1" is by far the best of all three David Yates installments, and my third favorite "Harry Potter" film, ranking right behind the fantastic "Prisoner of Azkaban" and the action-packed "Goblet of Fire".

• My Rating: 8.75/10
• Rotten Tomatoes: 78% (7.1/10)
• IMDb: 8.2/10