Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) --- "The Park Is Gone But There Is More To Fear Than Ever Before And Only the Strongest Will Survive."

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Plot Summary

Four years after the destruction of the Jurassic World theme park, Owen Grady and Claire Dearing return to the island of Isla Nublar to save the remaining dinosaurs from a volcano that's about to erupt. They soon encounter terrifying new breeds of gigantic dinos while uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the entire planet. (1)

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     I have been a Jurassic Park fan for most of my life and when I saw Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) I was not disappointed with this fun and exciting sequel to Jurassic World (2015). To be honest this was probably one of the best sequels in the Jurassic Park franchise, as it takes the audience on a journey unlike any other. Director J.A. Bayona (The Impossible; A Monster Calls) did a great job directing this film and added new levels of suspense and thrill throughout the film to capture the audience’s attention.

Jurassic World (2015) --- "It May Be Open But This Is No Walk In The Park. Something Else Has Evolved."

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Plot Summary

Located off the coast of Costa Rica, the Jurassic World luxury resort provides a habitat for an array of genetically engineered dinosaurs, including the vicious and intelligent Indominus Rex. When the massive creature escapes, it sets off a chain reaction that causes the other dinos to run amok. Now, it's up to a former military man and animal expert (Chris Pratt) to use his special skills to save two young brothers and the rest of the tourists from an all-out, prehistoric assault. (1)

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     Jurassic World (2015) is my favorite in the Jurassic Park series as it manages to stand up to the standards of the original 1993 film. This time Director Colin Trevorrow (The Book of Henry; Jurassic World 2 writer) is given the task of bringing this film to life and I believe that he does a great job. This is the true sequel that author Michael Crichton failed to give Steven Spielberg in 1997.

Jurassic Park 3 (2001) --- “You Know How The Dream Started And The Fantasy Ended. This Time Nature Takes No Prisoners.”

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After being persuaded by a wealthy businessman to conduct an aerial tour of Isla Sorna, InGen's second site for a failed Jurassic Park experiment, Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill) discovers the true reason for his invitation. A tragic accident maroons the party of seven, and they must attempt to escape with their lives. (1)

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     Jurassic Park III (2001) is a worthy successor in the franchise and while Steven Spielberg did not helm this installment, Joe Johnston (Jumanji) did a wonderful job. He pays homage to the original film while also adding his own touches and techniques in order to give the film a refreshing look. The film takes us back to Isla Sorna, Site B from The Lost World (1997), but it is clear from the beginning that this is a different film.

The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997) --- "Something Has Survived And They're Walking Our Streets"

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John Hammond (Richard Attenborough) summons chaos theorist Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) to his home with some startling information -- while nearly everything at his Jurassic Park had been destroyed, his engineers happened to have a second site, where other dinosaurs were kept in hiding. It seems the dinosaurs on the second island are alive and well and even breeding; Hammond wants Malcolm to observe and document the reptiles before Hammond's financiers can get to them. (1)

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  The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997) is the second film in the Jurassic Park series and much more intense than the original film. Director Steven Spielberg returns with a sci-fi classic and creates a new rhythm for the film to follow, while still staying true to the original. The Lost World is darker, thrilling, more intense, and has a mean streak that delivers an intelligent story. There are show-stopping scenes that will leave you speechless and probably one of the scariest raptor scenes than ever before.

Jurassic Park (1993) --- "The Greatest Discovery Of Our Time Becomes The An Adventure 65 Million Years In The Making...Life Always Finds A Way."

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Plot Summary

In Steven Spielberg's massive blockbuster, paleontologists Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and mathematician Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) are among a select group chosen to tour an island theme park populated by dinosaurs created from prehistoric DNA. While the park's mastermind, billionaire John Hammond (Richard Attenborough), assures everyone that the facility is safe, they find out otherwise when various ferocious predators break free and go on the hunt. (1)

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     I have always enjoyed dinosaurs, mythical creatures, and even lizards. Not enough to make a career out of it but I do love collecting 2-inch tall figurines. So there is no question that I instantly fell in love with this film. Jurassic Park (1993) is an undisputed adventurous masterpiece of creative imagination and breathtaking science fiction. After 25 years, Jurassic Park is still widely regarded as one of the greatest cinematic achievements we have ever seen.  Like a bottle of wine, this film only gets better with time and very few films are capable of achieving that level of success.

The Incredibles 2 (2018) --- “14 Years! It’s Been Far Too Long Dahlings. Now It’s Time To Get Back To Work”

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Plot Summary

Everyone’s favorite family of superheroes is back in “Incredibles 2” – but this time Helen (voice of Holly Hunter) is in the spotlight, leaving Bob (voice of Craig T. Nelson) at home with Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell) and Dash (voice of Huck Milner) to navigate the day-to-day heroics of “normal” life. It’s a tough transition for everyone, made tougher by the fact that the family is still unaware of baby Jack-Jack’s emerging superpowers. When a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot, the family and Frozone (voice of Samuel L. Jackson) must find a way to work together again—which is easier said than done, even when they’re all Incredible. (1)

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    I greatly enjoyed the first Incredibles (2004) and anyone who watched it knew that a sequel was bound to happen, no matter how long it took. Now, after 14 years that sequel has been made a reality and despite the years that have passed the film is as charming and entertaining as the first one.

The Incredibles (2004) --- “Former Superhero Saves The Day, Expect The Incredible To Happen”

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In this lauded Pixar animated film, married superheroes Mr. Incredible (Craig T. Nelson) and Elastigirl (Holly Hunter) are forced to assume mundane lives as Bob and Helen Parr after all super-powered activities have been banned by the government. While Mr. Incredible loves his wife and kids, he longs to return to a life of adventure, and he gets a chance when summoned to an island to battle an out-of-control robot. Soon, Mr. Incredible is in trouble, and it's up to his family to save him. (1)

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    One could say that Pixar was not going to produce another strong and successful film after Toy Story (1995), A Bug's Life (1998), etc but the 2004 release of Incredibles proved audiences wrong. Incredibles has gritty action, hilarious characters, amazing character design, and a story that refuses to talk down to the audience. Films like Incredibles come around once in a while and for comic book fans, this film adequately pays homage to classic superhero comics. However, one thing people are not aware of is the original target audience for cartoons...

Hostiles (2017) --- "Follow This Guy's Journey Into The Most Hostile Place Of His Time. Who Will Survive?"

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Plot Summary

In 1892, legendary Army Capt. Joseph Blocker reluctantly agrees to escort a dying Cheyenne war chief and his family back to their tribal land. Embarking on a harrowing and perilous journey from Fort Berringer, N.M., to the grasslands of Montana, they soon encounter a young widow whose family was killed on the plains. The travelers must now band together to survive a punishing landscape that's crawling with hostile Comanches and vicious outliers. (1)

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     In the 50’s, 60’s, and even a bit of the 70’s western films with John Wayne and Cowboy vs. Indians stories proliferated the big screen and small screen. The genre ran it’s course for 2 nearly 2 ½ decades but nowadays not very many western films have been made and the only way to revive it is to tell new and different stories set in the American West. This is exactly what Hostiles (2018) is, it’s a masterpiece. Director and Writer Scott Cooper (Black Mass; Crazy Heart) has brought to life the late Donald E. Stewart’s manuscript and while I have not read the manuscript I am sure that Stewart would have enjoyed seeing his work become a movie masterpiece.

Table 19 (2017) --- "You're Invited To The Wedding Of The Season. Take A Number. #19 Will Be Interesting."

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Plot Summary

Ex-maid of honor Eloise - having been relieved of her duties after being unceremoniously dumped by the best man via text - decides to hold her head high and attend her oldest friend's wedding anyway. She finds herself seated at the random table in the back of the ballroom with a disparate group of strangers, most of whom should have known to just send regrets. As everyone's secrets are revealed, Eloise learns a thing or two from the denizens of Table 19. (1)

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    Table 19 (2017) is a rom-com (romantic comedy) at it’s finest, despite what everyone else says. The film takes place over the course of several hours during a  hotel wedding reception. As the happy couple celebrates with family and friends a group of strangers sits at the dreaded ‘last table in the back’. This group of strangers participates in uncomfortable banter and situation while trying to ignore the obvious reasons for the seating placement.

Ocean's 8 (2018) --- "Every Con Has Its Pros. Here's 8 Of Them."

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Plot Summary

Five years, eight months, 12 days and counting -- that's how long Debbie Ocean has been devising the biggest heist of her life. She knows what it's going to take -- a team of the best people in the field, starting with her partner-in-crime Lou Miller. Together, they recruit a crew of specialists, including jeweler Amita, street con Constance, suburban mom Tammy, hacker Nine Ball, and fashion designer Rose. Their target -- a necklace that's worth more than $150 million. (1)

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     Ocean’s 8 (2018) is amazing. From the moment that I found out that they were making an all-female cast Ocean’s film, I knew that it would interesting. But now after seeing this film, interesting does not even describe it.  Ocean’s 8 had a lot to live up to after the success of George Clooney’s Ocean’s film and I can say without a doubt that this film is very different. Director Gary Ross (Free State of Jones) brings us a whole new story, one that is not a feministic campaign, with a new set of characters and even a few cameo appearances.

Ocean's Thirteen (2007) --- "Revenge Is A Funny Thing But What Are The Odds Of Getting Even? 13 To One."

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Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and his gang hatch an ambitious plot for revenge after ruthless casino owner Willy Bank (Al Pacino) double-crosses Reuben Tishkoff, Danny's friend and mentor. First, Ocean's gang plan to hit Bank in the paycheck by reversing the precept that the house always wins. Next, they will deal a crushing blow to Bank's ego by ruining his reputation as the only hotelier to earn the Royal Review's Five Diamond Award for each of his properties. (1)

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    First came Ocean’s Eleven (2001) which was an intelligent, and entertaining film that did quite well with its diverse cast, witty dialogue, and documentary-style cinematography. Next came Ocean’s Twelve (2004) with extra cast members and a different heist story instead of the typical casino/bank heist. And finally, there is Ocean’s Thirteen (2007) which is just as intelligent and witty as Eleven but it also handles the extra cast members and improved story like Twelve. Ocean’s Thirteen, in its own right, is also vibrant, fast-paced, humorous, engrossing, and pays attention to the smallest of details. Just when you think all hope is lost for your favorite crew, we quickly discover that everything possible was planned for from the start. I understand that those who were disappointed with Ocean’s Twelve were hesitant to watch this film but I think that if you skip this film then your missing out.

    Writers Brian Koppelman (Premium Rush) and David Levien (The Illusionist) have written a complex and witty script. Ocean’s Twelve was about paying back a wronged enemy while Ocean’s Thirteen was completely about revenge on a chauvinist casino owner after he wronged one of their own. The films open up with large portions of dialogue that set the premise for the crews’ actions for the rest of the film. How the crew exacts their revenge will leave you speechless, especially with all the hidden surprises throughout. The film’s pacing is set up so that it allows the characters plenty of room to showcase their various and hidden talents. One way that this is the film is an improvement from Eleven is because the story focuses on the actual heist itself while the planning of said heist is relatively short. Another difference is the absence of a romantic sub-plot. It worked for the first film but it was not necessary here so I am glad that they cut it out and showed us what we came to see, a great heist story. The humor is great as the one-liners and jokes are delivered in a subtle, witty and slightly self-referential manner that gives the film its signature humor.

    Director Steven Soderbergh - who was also the film’s cinematographer and producer - crafted a sharp, vibrant, and enjoyable film. A technical improvement to this film is its use of computer hacking and cunning gadgets along with quick wits and adaptable skills that are necessary to pull off this difficult heist. The return to Las Vegas as the film’s setting is colorful and fascinating with all the neon lights, water fountains, unique architecture, and worthy set decorations to bring this world to life. Audiences are given just enough information to suggest how Las Vegas’ casinos operate as well as how cutthroat the world is without overwhelming us with too much detail.  

    The acting was superb all around. Once again our favorite group of compatible actors has gathered together along with some characters that were unexpected. The original 11 return to reprise their roles -  George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Elliot Gould, Eddie Jemison, Don Cheadle, Shaobo Qin, Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Bernie Mac, and Carl Reiner - as well as Andy Garcia as Terry Benedict and Vincent Cassel as the Night Theif from Twelve. Ellen Barkin offers a fun performance and she adds a female touch to an otherwise male-dominated film. Considering how great Al Pacino (The Godfather trilogy) did in The Godfather trilogy, it is no surprise that the filmmakers had him play Willy Bank, who proves to be a bigger jerk and more aggressive than Garcia’s character. Garcia was great as the villain in the first film but he was not menacing enough and his threats were empty. However, Pacino knows how to convincingly portrays a successful and rich hotel-casino owner without boredom or impatience.

    Overall, Ocean’s Thirteen (2007) is a smart, witty, and entertaining film about revenge and a casino heist. Director  Soderbergh successfully shows his skill as a director, cinematographer, and producer. The writers also created an improved and developed storyline that still managed to withhold some secrets until the very end. The all-star cast was wonderful, especially Al Pacino as the villain. If you loved Ocean’s Eleven but you were hesitant to see this film because of Ocean’s Twelve (I personally enjoyed Twelve), then I highly recommend this film to anyone who is a fan of the series.

"The moment you become embarrassed of who you are, you lose yourself. I changed my house, the way I dressed, the way I ate - for what? For nothing."

- Reuben Tishkoff

Final Vote

Worth Seeing:  8 of 10 stars

Worth Buying:  8 of 10 stars

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Movies Similar 

Analyze This (1999)
Analyze That (2002)
Bank Job, The (2008)
Be Cool (2005)
Burn After Reading (2008)
Italian Job (2003)
Now You See Me (2013)
Now You See Me 2 (2016)
Ocean's Eleven (2001)
Ocean's Twelve (2004)
Ocean's 8 (2018)
Public Enemies (2009)
Tourist, The (2010)
Tower Heist (2011)

Ocean's Twelve (2004) --- “They Stole $160 Million. Now, Only An Ocean Stands Between Their Old Enemy And Their New Enemy.”

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Plot Summary

After successfully robbing five casinos in one night, Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and his crew of thieves have big problems. Despite pulling off one of the biggest heists in Las Vegas history, the members of the gang have already spent much of the money they stole. Casino owner Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia) demands that Ocean return the money, plus millions more in interest. Unable to come up the cash, the crew is forced to come together to pull off another series of heists, this time in Europe. (1) 

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     It was only a matter of time until director Steven Soderbergh (Erin Brockovich) helmed a sequel film to his 2001 remake, Ocean’s Eleven. I heard that the success of the original Ocean’s films started to decrease with each added sequel film. However, this is not the case for Ocean’s Twelve (2004). Soderbergh gives us an extended plot by focusing on flashbacks, stylish set designs, and a different sense of humor. 

      Ocean’s Twelve continues 3 years after Ocean’s Eleven (2001), where the crew robbed casino owner Terry Benedict. Now, Benedict is out for revenge by personally demanding the money they stole be returned within 2 weeks. Unfortunately, the only way for the crew to get the money is by completing a series of heists throughout Europe. I am glad that the filmmakers chose this story route rather than another cliché casino/bank heist. In doing this we are given a story that is filled with witty dialogue, a different sense of humor, and fast pacing.

     The set designs and settings of Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, and Italy’s Lake Come were well chosen and stylish. The cinematography was clever in that it made great use in highlighting the settings and translating the humor effectively. David Holmes (Ocean’s Eleven) has composed an incredible music score that carries a 60’s retro lounge feel that was overall perfects for the film’s theme.

     The performances from the cast were all around great. George Clooney (Money Monster), Brad Pitt (Deadpool 2), and crew had fun reprising their previous roles. Andy Garcia (Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again) returns this time as the wronged casino owner now out for revenge, Terry Benedict. Julia Roberts (Erin Brockovich; Wonder) is wonderful as Danny's wife, Tess, and it was funny to see her become part of Ocean’s crew. Bruce Willis (Death Wish), who turned down Garcia's role in Ocean’s Eleven, gives a great cameo as himself in this film. Catherine Zeta-Jones (Red 2) is amazing as Europe’s successful Interpol inspector on everyone’s tail. She also makes the role feel and look elegant with leather coat, high heels, and always perfect hairstyle. It was interesting to see her also be Pitt’s love interest. French actor Vincent Cassel (Black Swan), as the elegant and arrogant thief Night Fox is a highlight for this film, while fellow European actors Robbie Coltrane (Harry Potter as Hagrid) and Jerome Krabbe (The Fugitive ) also gave some great supporting appearances. 

     Overall, Ocean’s Twelve (2004) is a fun and comedic heist sequel of a different quality. With Eleven and Thirteen being casino heists it is nice that the filmmakers chose to go a different route for Twelve. While Ocean’s Twelve does not deserve Oscar worthy high praise, neither is it worthy of scrutiny for being a feel-good kind of film. If you enjoyed the previous Ocean’s film then you will enjoy this one. 

"If, God forbid, anything does happen to you, we will not be involved."

- Reuben

Final Vote

Worth Seeing:  8.4 of 10 stars

Worth Buying:  8.4 of 10 stars

I hope you liked this post, Subscribe HERE, send in your comments, and watch Ocean's Twelve (2004).

Movies Similar 

Analyze This (1999)
Analyze That (2002)
Bank Job, The (2008)
Be Cool (2005)
Burn After Reading (2008)
Italian Job (2003)
Now You See Me (2013)
Now You See Me 2 (2016)
Ocean's Eleven (2001)
Ocean's Thirteen (2007)
Ocean's 8 (2018)
Public Enemies (2009)
Tourist, The (2010)
Tower Heist (2011)

Ocean's Eleven (2001) --- "Ready To Win Big? 3 Casinos. 11 Guys. 150 Million Bucks. Are You In Or Out?"

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Dapper Danny Ocean (George Clooney) is a man of action. Less than 24 hours into his parole from a New Jersey penitentiary, the wry, charismatic thief is already rolling out his next plan. Following three rules: Don't hurt anybody, don't steal from anyone who doesn't deserve it, and play the game like you've got nothing to lose. Danny orchestrates the most sophisticated, elaborate casino heist in history. (1)

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     It can be tough to make a film with a lot of big-name stars and not let the story fall flat but that was not the case for Ocean’s Eleven (2001). Director Steven Soderbergh (Erin Brockovich; Solaris) manages to tell a funny, fast-paced, and clever story that helps elevate the character’s performances. In addition, director Soderbergh took a risk in making a reboot of the original 1960 Ocean’s 11 starring Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and many more. And while I have not had the privilege of seeing the original films I do know that when you an original featuring iconic actors of all time and you make a reboot film then the stakes are at an all-time high. And yet Soderbergh makes a pretty entertaining heist film that stands on its own.

Suburbicon (2017) --- “Welcome To The Neighborhood Where Director George Clooney Takes You To The Darker Side Of Suburbia.”

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Suburbicon is a peaceful, idyllic, suburban community with affordable homes and manicured lawns -- the perfect place to raise a family, and in the summer of 1959, the Lodge family is doing just that. But the tranquil surface masks a disturbing reality, as husband and father Gardner Lodge must navigate the town's dark underbelly of betrayal, deceit, and violence. (1) 

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     Suburbicon (2017) is one of those films you have to see it and then decided for yourself if you like it. I went into this film without knowing much about, I had only seen the trailers a couple times before viewing the film so I did not know what to expect here. All I knew was that it was a dark comedy most likely about murder starring Matt Damon (Downsizing) and Julianne Moore (Kingsmen: The Golden Circle). Personally, I can’t say that this is my favorite film or that I would watch it again, let alone buy it. But regardless of the fact that I don’t care much for it, this is still a good film.