DADDY’S HOME (Theatrical Release USA 2015)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.4|5.0 Starsìììì

Daddy’s Home does something rare in a comedy script—it keeps its comedic pace evenly distributed throughout the movie without a drop, dip, or single flag in style. The dialogue and scenes deliver a beautiful understanding of the nuances that play out between men of opposite character trying to work through and establish common meeting ground in a situation that seems to predict complete failure. The storyline is a little ‘edgy’ but makes that edginess work for the overall benefit of the film without offending. Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg act their assigned characters through perfectly rendered body language, well-timed dialogue, and delightful coordination of choreography. Supporting cast members do not overshadow the lead characters’ roles. The film, from beginning to end, establishes itself as a terrific and thoroughly enjoyable watch.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

New step dad, Brad Whitaker (Will Ferrell), and ‘real’ dad, Dusty Mayron (Mark Wahlberg), interlock horns over territorial rights.

Additional Thanks

Thank You to Director Sean Anders for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Sean Anders, Riza Aziz, Jessica Elbaum, David Koplan, Joey McFarland, Diane Pokorny, and Kevin J. Messick for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Brad Whitaker (Will Ferrell), Dusty Mayron (Mark Wahlberg), Sara (Linda Cardellini), Leo Holt (Thomas Haden Church), Megan (Scarlett Estevez), Dylan (Owen Vaccaro) Dr. Francisco (Bobby Cannavale), Griff (Hannibal Buress), Jerry (Bill Burr), Doris (Jamie Denbo), Dental Hygenist (Mark L. Young), Pete (Matthew Paul Martinez), Panda Singer #1 (Dave Davis), and Panda Singer #2 (James Harlon Palmer).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The movie deserves a sequel and sets itself up for Daddy’s Home 2 that adds John Lithgow, Mel Gibson, and John Cena to the story.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

GREEN BOOK (Released to Theaters USA 2018)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.3|5.0 Starsìììì  Green Book—more than worth watching—becomes one of the better films from 2018. Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali make a great casting team for this show. The story shows incredible writing skill and catches small nuances that greatly enhance the value of the movie. The content is highly original. The movie makes an outstanding addition to the home video library.  Film Poster Courtesy of IMDb Storyline This drama film is about an African American piano player who needs a driver and a man who can help him get out of trouble so that he can survive travel in the south while playing piano for high class audiences in the 1960s.    Additional Thanks  Thank you to Director Peter Farrelly for directing effort. Thank you to Producers  Jim Burke, Brian Hayes Currie, Peter Farrelly, Nick Vallelonga, and Charles B. Wessler. Cast includes Viggo Mortensen, Mahershala Ali, and Linda Cardellini. Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. This is a wonderful watch for the teen/adult audience and has grand acting. Video Critique Available Here: Ben Meyers

HUNTER KILLER (Released to Theaters USA 2018)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.1|5.0 Starsìììì  Hunter Killer—quite good— backs itself with good research and a well put together cast that includes Gerard Butler and Gary Oldman.  The story takes a completely different twist than expected and that makes it unique  Film Poster Courtesy of IMDb Storyline  USA  submarine crew investigates a missing American submarine in Russian waters.  Additional Thanks  Thank you to Director Donovan Marsh for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Neal H. Moritz, Toby Jaffe, Gerard Butler, Alan Siegel, Tucker Tooley, Mark Gill, John Thompson, Matt O'Toole, and Les Weldon for making the film possible. Cast includes Gerard Butler, Gary Oldman, Common, Linda Cardellini, and Toby Stephens. Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. This Gerard Butler film is easily missed partially due to its title's lack of flair. Do not miss it. It is very watchable and well done. Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers