Underwater (Movie Review)

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Release Date: January 10, 2020

Genre: Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense, Horror, Science Fiction

Cast: Kristen Stewart, Vincent Cassel, TJ Miller, John Gallagher Jr., Jessica Henwick

Summary (from Rotten Tomatoes):

A crew of underwater researchers must scramble to safety after an earthquake devastates their subterranean laboratory.

Movie Review

When I saw the trailer for this movie, it piqued my interest to see it. A science fiction horror film that takes place under water is interesting and a little scary, because water can be calm yet dangerous, and since this crew is in the deep, dark, waters of the Mariana Trench for the duration of the movie you can only imagine the fear that they are experiencing. At 95 minutes the movie moves at a fast pace, which I wasn’t complaining about. Maybe 10 minutes after the movie started, the subterranean research station is hit by what the crew members believe is to be an earthquake, and the movie doesn’t stop from there. I was surprised how fast the action started and I loved it, I mean its always nice when action in a film happens quickly, and I was on the edge of my seat from there. Underwater features Kristen Stewart, Vincent Cassel, and TJ Miller, the entire cast gave decent performances, but I want to highlight Kristen Stewart; She gave a lead badass performance and probably one of my favorite roles she starred in. The visuals in this movie were nice, including the action scenes and whenever we saw the creatures; This movie also featured some great cinematography, especially underwater, even though it was dark, and there was debris, it was shot beautifully. And while the movie isn’t super scary, there were a few jump scare scenes that had my heart racing because you’re slightly scared for the crew and want them all to survive and at the same time wonder what is attacking the crew. After a while we get a look at the grotesque, humanoid sea creatures. This is a fun, entertaining, intense, fast paced movie that features a great, lead performance by Kristen Stewart, along with the other cast members ! Underwater is a good horror movie for the month of January and while it may be slightly terrifying , it’s a treat to watch, and a movie I recommend you to see. Thanks for reading !

Rating: 3.5/5

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My Top 10 Movies Of 2019

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The year is nearly over, and 2019 has brought us some great films this year; So of course I made my Top 10 Movies Of The Year list; It was kind of hard putting this list together, because like I stated earlier, 2019 had some really great films and I enjoyed the movies I’ve seen this year (some of which have become my favorites); Also just wanted to say that I haven’t seen alot of movies that came out this year, but I did see a pretty decent amount of movies that I could not wait to see. In addition to listing my top ten movies of the year, you’ll also see short excerpts from my past movie reviews that I did on the films this year. Let’s check out the list ! 

10. Toy Story 4

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“The animation in this movie is amazing, the details, the vivid colors; its like the animation gets better with each movie… Without spoiling the movie, there are some surprises in the film, especially the ending ! I loved Toy Story 4 so much, I would go see it again. This movie is fun, surprising, heartwarming, and has that Pixar humor that we love. I laughed, smiled, and teared up.”

9. Shazam 

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“And can we pleaseee discuss Zachary Levi, I mean he was born for this role, besides being incredibly handsome and charismatic, he embodied this character so well; His acting as a 15 year old boy is so good; Him juggling and learning how to use his powers, makes him into this likable hero; You can tell Levi enjoyed playing this role. This is an unique superhero film, not like others we’ve seen in a while. Shazam! is fun, entertaining, amazing, funny, heartwarming, and pure magic. I am in love with this movie.”

8. John Wick 3: Parabellum

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“I love Keanu as John, he has that cool laidback personality, the moves, and knows how to fight. Keanu is perfect in this role. Also let’s talk about the action in this movie, which is amazing ! There were assassins coming left and right at John to claim that $14 million bounty and of course he always came out on top; Whether its breaking a guy’s neck with a library book or killing a guy with five knives, I was just looking at the screen in awe.”

7. Doctor Sleep

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“The cast in this movie did an amazing job, the acting was great, and the new characters were interesting. Rebecca Ferguson gave a terrifying performance as Rose the Hat, a cult leader who feeds on children with psychic powers…. Being a sequel to the horror classic, The Shining, the movie stands on its own, and it shines lol. I really enjoyed this movie, it’s definitely one of my favorite movies of the year ! The movie score was haunting, and the visuals were stunning, I was not disappointed.”

6. Midsommar 

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“After watching this movie I felt the same way I felt while watching Hereditary. You have questions after what you’ve just see, not in a bad way, but in an interested way. The acting was great, especially the performance by Florence Pugh; The plot was interesting, and overall Midsommar is a terrifying, gruesome, intense, and shocking movie, I loved it. If you enjoyed Hereditary, then you’ll love this one.”

5. IT: Chapter Two

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“They all did a great job of acting. I also loved how we were able to see flashbacks of the young Losers Club, including scenes we did not see in the first film, it was kind of nostalgic. Let’s talk about the star of the film, Bill Skarsgard as Pennywise the Dancing Clown. I love Bill as Pennywise; he gives a great performance, just like how he did in the first film. He’s menacing, creepy, and terrifying. IT: Chapter Two is a great conclusion to the story and I think it is just like the first film: a horror masterpiece.”

4. Joker

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“The role of The Joker has great character development, and Joaquin brought that darkness and tragedy to the role. My favorite part of the movie is maybe about the last 45 minutes to a hour of the film, when Arthur Fleck, embraces his Joker alter ego; That last hour of the movie gave me chills, I loved it ! Another thing about this movie is the suspense; It’s like you don’t know what will happen next, but I think that’s a great thing. Joker is an amazing, dark, gritty, and intense masterpiece taking us into the origin of Gotham’s and comic book’s iconic and greatest villain. Joaquin Phoenix gives a tour de force performance, which deserves an Oscar nomination and a win for sure !”

3. Us 

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“The stand out amongst the actors is leading lady Lupita N’yongo; I mean she was amazing, giving both a creepy and outstanding performance. The use of music throughout the movie was on point; The creepy remix of Luniz’s “I Got 5 On It”, which was also featured in the trailers was rightly placed when ever it was played in the film. As I stated on earlier in this review, Jordan Peele makes great films that are interesting and unique. His films are good on having messages and is big on symbolism which I think is pretty dope.”

2. Knives Out

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“I came into the movie theater with high hopes and excitement and let me tell you I was not disappointed. Daniel Craig as Detective Benoit Blanc, I really loved him in this role, he made a great detective, and was the only one who solved the murder, and did I mention his accent, like I really love it lol, I don’t think I could’ve seen any other actor in this role besides Daniel Craig. The suspense and mystery of finding the murderer was fun, exciting, and had me on the edge of my seat, because anybody could’ve been the suspect and had motive. Knives Out is a funny, modern, stylish, and fun, whodunit with an ensemble cast that gives the audience strong acting and memorable characters.”

1. Avengers: Endgame

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My most anticipated movie of 2019 is my top favorite movie of the year, are you surprised lol ? – “This movie had me on the edge of my seat — Not in a horror movie thriller type way, but in a way where you have this built up anticipation and you are excited yet anxious not knowing what will happen next. Over 10 years leading up to this, and the fans got the movie we’ve been anticipating, including a few surprises (yes surprises). I cried several times during the film, I cheered, and laughed –This movie was definitely an emotional roller coaster. Endgame is a great conclusion to wrap up the first three phases of the MCU movies.”

Honorable Mentions (I loved these films as well)

Spiderman: Far From Home

Ready Or Not

Captain Marvel

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Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark

21 Bridges

Annabelle Comes Home

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Godzilla: King Of Monsters

The Prodigy

Living My Best Life At Ariana Grande’s Sweetener Concert ♡

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I was so excited when Ariana Grande announced her Sweetener World Tour. Then she released additional dates and cities, and I was even more excited to see that she would be performing in Jacksonville, Florida. Ariana is another one of my favorite artists who attended Jacksonville that I got to see in concert (the other being Rihanna), and I could not wait until December 1, to see this queen perform. The concert was at 8:00 pm, and the arena was packed, I was so excited, and I felt the Ariana Grande love around me.

Ariana performed a variety of her hits, and I was singing every one of them. (seriously you can hear me on the videos I recorded lol (which are not posted here). Social House were her guests for her stop in Jacksonville. I also obtained the below setlist from http://www.setlist.fm. (FYI: Each show may have different songs that she performed)

Act 1

1. Raindrops (An Angel Cried)

2. God Is a Woman

3. Bad Idea

4. Break Up With Your Girlfriend, I’m Bored

Act 2

Childhood (video interlude)

5. R.E.M.

6. Be Alright

7. Sweetener/Successful

8. Side to Side (with extended outro) 

9. 7 Rings

Act 3

Adore (Cashmere Cat song) (video interlude)

10. Breathin

11. Needy

12. Fake Smile

13. Make Up

14. December / True Love / Wit It This Christmas / Santa Tell Me

15. NASA

16. Get Well Soon (shortened) 

Act 4

In My Head (video interlude)

17. Everytime (shortened) 

18. The Light Is Coming (shortened) 

19. Into You (shortened) 

Act 5

My Heart Belongs to Daddy (Marilyn Monroe song) (video interlude)

20. Dangerous Woman

21. No Tears Left to Cry

Encore:

Thank U, Next (video interlude)

22. Thank U, Next (with extended outro) 

Wheeww Ariana Grande’s voice is amazing; How can this big, soulful voice come out of a person so tiny… I mean she gave some great performances, and not only that, her set designs were beautiful — I mean they were dreamy, celestial, feminine, and soft with hues of pink, purple, yellow, and blue. I meant these set designs were perfect for her and her songs. Below are some pictures I took at the concert. (p.s. I know my pics aren’t the best, but I thought they were okay lol)

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(Above) Ariana performing “bad idea.”

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(Above) Ariana performing “7 rings.”

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(Above) Ariana performing “get well soon.”

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(Above) Ariana performing “thank u’ next.”

I had a great time at Ariana’s concert, and when she performed “thank u’ next”, I knew the concert was about to end, which I was sad about, because I was really enjoying myself. I feel like it was destiny that I got to see this queen perform, because I believe the Jacksonville, FL show was later added. I am so happy that Jacksonville was added to her tour, because this concert is one of the great things I experienced this year. Thank you Ariana Grande for an amazing and memorable night. ♡

☆ Concert Ready — My outfit for the Sweetener Tour ☆

Before I wrap up my post on my night at the concert, I wanted to show you what I wore that night…the lace top, pink corduroy skirt, and tights all came from Forever 21; The boots I already had (not pictured), which came from JCPenney’s. I wanted to do an Ariana Sweetener-era, feminine, soft look, which I think I nailed ! 

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Thank U’ Next…lol..just kidding, thank you for reading about my fun night at this queen’s concert; Here’s to attending the next tour she goes on..Until next time ! 

Knives Out (Movie Review)

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Release Date: November 27, 2019

Genre: Drama, Mystery & Suspense

Cast: Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana De Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson

Summary (from Rotten Tomatoes):

Acclaimed writer and director Rian Johnson (Brick, Looper, Star Wars: The Last Jedi) pays tribute to mystery mastermind Agatha Christie in KNIVES OUT, a fun, modern-day murder mystery where everyone is a suspect. When renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday, the inquisitive and debonair Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is mysteriously enlisted to investigate. From Harlan’s dysfunctional family to his devoted staff, Blanc sifts through a web of red herrings and self-serving lies to uncover the truth behind Harlan’s untimely death. With an all-star ensemble cast including Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette, Don Johnson, Michael Shannon, LaKeith Stanfield, Katherine Langford and Jaeden Martell, KNIVES OUT is a witty and stylish whodunit guaranteed to keep audiences guessing until the very end.

Movie Review

Whodunit: a story or play about a murder in which the identity of the murderer is not revealed until the end. Also, can be called a murder mystery, which is also one of my favorite genres of movies. When I first saw the trailer for Knives Out, my first thoughts were: My man, Chris Evans is starring in it, second, this movie has an ensemble cast of great actors, including Scream Queen legend Jamie Lee Curtis, and lastly is that Daniel Craig rocking a southern accent in this movie, I love it. Alright lets get into my review on Knives Out. I came into the movie theater with high hopes and excitement and let me tell you I was not disappointed. Knives Out features an ensemble cast, featuring some very famous actors and familiar faces. I love when a movie is not only good, but also has a talented cast ensemble. The actors in Knives Out did a great job playing their characters, and some of my actor/character highlights were: Daniel Craig as Detective Benoit Blanc, I really loved him in this role, he made a great detective, and was the only one who solved the murder, and did I mention his accent, like I really love it lol, I don’t think I could’ve seen any other actor in this role besides Daniel Craig. Next up is Chris Evans, honestly Captain America was no Captain America in Knives Out, he was an entitled, spoiled jerk, but it was a different role for him that worked. Lastly, I enjoyed the character Marta played by Ana De Armas; Humbled, sweet, and with a good heart, this character was essential to the movie, especially within the chaos of the Thrombrey family, and Ana De Armas, played her well. The suspense and mystery of finding the murderer was fun, exciting, and had me on the edge of my seat, because anybody could’ve been the suspect and had motive. Knives Out is a funny, modern, stylish, and fun, whodunit with an ensemble cast that gives the audience strong acting and memorable characters. Let’s not forget what makes Knives Out the must watch movie of the year, is the cleverness, the plot twist, and the great ending of the movie. As a fan of whodunits and mystery movies, I recommend you to see Knives Out. It’s one of my favorite movies of the year, and whether or not you like mystery movies, you should go see this movie. Let me know in the comments below if you’ve seen Knives Out or plan to see it. Thanks for reading !

*Rating: 5/5 *

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21 Bridges (Movie Review)

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Release Date: November 22, 2019

Genre: Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense, Drama

Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Sienna Miller, Stephan James, Taylor Kitsch, Keith David, J.K. Simmons

Summary (from Rotten Tomatoes):

21 BRIDGES follows an embattled NYPD detective (Chadwick Boseman), who is thrust into a citywide manhunt for a pair of cop killers after uncovering a massive and unexpected conspiracy. As the night unfolds, lines become blurred on who he is pursuing, and who is in pursuit of him. When the search intensifies, extreme measures are taken to prevent the killers from escaping Manhattan as the authorities close all 21 BRIDGES to prevent any entry or exit from the iconic island.

Movie Review

When I saw the trailer for 21 Bridges, I knew the movie would be good; I got goosebumps after watching the trailer, a sure sign that the movie will be a good one. Now before I hop into my review, I was pretty shocked that 21 Bridges received low ratings/reviews.  However, these ratings did not stop me from seeing the movie. I was also excited when I found out that The Russo Brothers produced this film, this dynamic duo directed quite a few of MCU movies, which too were amazing. The acting in this movie is great. The cast includes Chadwick Boseman, Sienna Miller, Keith David, and J.K. Simmons who played the detectives, and Stephan James and Taylor Kitsch played the roles of the two criminals who shot and killed several cops in the midst of a drug heist gone wrong, which then began the chase of the two, and the shutting down of all the bridges in Manhattan, hence the movie title, 21 Bridges. Chadwick Boseman gave a great lead performance in the movie , and so did the other actors, all giving gritty performances. I also love how they were able to pull off a New York accent too. The action in the movie started maybe about 40 minutes into the film, and once it began, it didn’t stop. The exciting part of the movie was the whole police chase of the detectives trying to catch the two who killed the police officers. You think are they gonna get caught ? How is it gonna end, and a few other questions that may pop in your head. At 1 hr. and 39 mins. you get a good, satisfying police thriller that involves an exciting cat and mouse game involving the capture and arrest of two young men, who murdered several cops. There were several thoughts talked about in the movie that alluded that some type of conspiracy and “foul play” is involved, which is even more intriguing. I did wish that the movie ended in what happened after the arrests and discovering of the confirmed suspicions by Chadwick Boseman character, and how were the those involved charged and punished. 21 Bridges is an action-packed, suspenseful, entertaining, movie that I really enjoyed watching. The acting was great and there’s a plot twist, which I loved. After watching this movie I was not disappointed. If you are into action movies or police thrillers than you should watch 21 Bridges. I was in suspense while watching the movie, and definitely recommend you to go see this movie. Are you planning to watch 21 Bridges ? Or have you seen the movie? If so, what did you think about it ? Let me know in the comments below, thanks for reading !

Rating: 4.5/5 

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Frozen II (Movie Review)

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Release Date: November 22, 2019

Genre: Action & Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Kids & Family

Cast: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad, Jonathan Groff, Sterling K. Brown, Evan Rachel Wood, Alfred Molina

Summary (from Rotten Tomatoes):

Why was Elsa born with magical powers? The answer is calling her and threatening her kingdom. Together with Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven, she’ll set out on a dangerous but remarkable journey. In “Frozen,” Elsa feared her powers were too much for the world. In “Frozen 2,” she must hope they are enough.

Review By Me

Frozen is one of my favorite Disney animated movies; I love the story, the characters, and the songs. Six years later we finally get the anticipated Frozen II and let me tell you it’s a great film, and I loved it. Did you guys suspect that Frozen II would be released ? I was 99.9 % sure; I mean don’t most Disney movies have sequels, especially the ones with princesses. I’m sure just like me, you were anxious to see what they’ve been up to and were ready to go on another adventure with these guys; And yes the characters from the first film are all back – Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven. In Frozen II it’s been a few years since the first film, so of course the characters are a little older. I love how much closer Elsa and Anna have gotten, even though at times Elsa struggles with “letting Anna in” when it comes to her powers. Olaf, everyone’s favorite snowman, often acknowledges that they’ve gotten a little older, and his innocence yet humor comes through that. The animation in this movie is beautiful; Yes it was beautiful in the first film, but six years of animation can improve. The colors were so vivid and beautiful. The images were fantastic, and I loved when Elsa would use her ice powers making snow and beautiful ice sculptures, which all looked amazing. You know what’s even better than having your favorite characters appear in a sequel ? Having new characters that the audience grow to love. In Frozen II we meet new characters outside of Arendelle; Which are introduced through flashbacks and in real time. The voice actors were all great, its like they were made for these roles; When you think of that specific character you think of the voice actor that did an amazing job, by bringing that character to life – In fact all voice actors are good at it. Let’s not forget that they all sing so well; Yes,there’s new songs that quickly become favorites of the audience, I really love “Into The Unknown” and “Show Yourself”, which really show cases the actors voice and range. I love the characters of Anna and Elsa, they’re in my top five of favorite Disney Princesses, Kristoff is just the sweetest, Olaf is still so cute and silly, and all these great characters and more contribute to a great film. Frozen II is an amazing, magical, touching, and fun movie, which I also recommend Disney fans to watch and join the gang while they journey “Into The Unknown”, as Elsa learns more about her powers. Also compared to the first film, this one is a bit more for a mature audience, but it is still kid friendly, and everyone can enjoy it ! There’s no doubt that Frozen II will earn a “Best Animated Film” Oscar nomination, just as the first film was nominated and also won. Will you be watching Frozen II ? Have you seen it ? If so, which one is your favorite, Frozen or Frozen II ? Let me know in the comments below. Thanks for reading !

 Rating: 4/5 

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My Holiday Playlist…

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Christmas will be here soon, and whether or not you’re in the mood or haven’t gotten festive yet, Christmas songs always seem to do it.  And let’s not forget the loop of Christmas songs that will be playing throughout the stores while we Christmas shop. Today’s blog post will be listing my favorite Christmas songs or songs that I hear that definitely gets me in the spirit ! Some songs you may have heard, some you may not have heard; Some songs on this list are Christmas classics and some are modern and new but one thing for sure, is that these songs will put you in the Holiday mood !

Here we go… (Also this list does not reflect my rankings) ♫♪

1. Mariah Carey – All I Want For Christmas Is You ( The Christmas QUEEN) 

2. Mariah Carey feat Justin Bieber – All I Want For Christmas Is You (Super Festive)

3. Mariah Carey – Oh Santa

4. Ariana Grande – Winter Things

5. Ariana Grande- Last Christmas ( I love her rendition of this song)

6. Ariana Grande – Santa Tell Me 

7. Andy Williams- It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year ( THE staple song for the holidays)

8. Nat King Cole- Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire

9. Eartha Kitt- Santa Baby  ( Her voice, that is all) 

10. Justin Bieber- Mistletoe

11. Kelly Clarkson – Underneath The Tree

12. Ashanti – Christmas Time Again

13. TLC- Sleigh Ride (Love this hip hop version of The Ronettes, Sleigh Ride; They’re also on this list too ☺)

14. The Ronettes – Sleigh Ride 

15. Frank Sinatra – Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

16. Idina Menzel feat. Michael Buble – Baby It’s Cold Outside ( Their voices compliment each other so well, pretty much perfect for this duet) 

17. The Temptations- Silent Night ( I mean all those different voices blend so well)

18. Donny Hathaway- This Christmas 

19. Destiny Child’s – 8 Days Of Christmas 

20. Jackson 5- Santa Claus Is Coming To Town ( A young Michael Jackson always stealing the show lol )

Were any of your holiday favorites on this list ? What are some of your favorite songs to get you in the holiday mood ? Let me know in the comments below, and thanks for checking out my list !