Movie Review - Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Genre: Action/ Adventure
Runtime: 145 minutes
Year: 2026
Starring: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, Mark Ruffalo, Sadie Sink, Florence Pugh
 
Description: A forgotten Peter Parker (Tom Holland) lives alone as a full-time Spider-Man until mounting pressure triggers a dangerous change and a powerful new enemy emerges.
 
Review: Ever since Spider-Man found his way into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we’ve already been treated to three movies in which his personal motivations have consistently been simple and clear. No matter how crazy the stakes of the Spider-Man narrative became in “Spider-Man: No Way Home”, at the end of the day. Peter Parker just wanted to go to college with his two best friends. In “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” as well, the reason behind his actions is clear and person: he misses his friends.

Since the previous movie, Peter has been erased from the memories of everyone alive, and now he’s decided to just be Spider-Man full-time. From a distance, he watches as his high school friends Ned and MJ go through college without him. Meanwhile, he saves New York from the bad guys. But then a threat emerges that our superhero struggles with: something, or someone, that can jump from the body of one citizen to that of another.

His main companion in this film is Frank Caste, also known as the Punisher. Another lone wolf. And then there’s the character, who I won’t discuss because of spoilers, played by Sadie Sink. I was very excited that she was in it and I had some theories about who she was playing. I was right and it made me even more excited. Her role involves loneliness and loss. And in that way, she mirrors Peter Parker’s experiences. This was the heart of the film and gave it emotional depth.

There is something reassuring about the fact that tis young man with superpowers just can’t seem to get his life together. Peter Parker always feels a little like one of us. And like someone who makes obvious mistakes, from which he has to learn. No matter how super-intelligent or strong he is, this is a hero with very relatable problems. Mixed with superhero problems, sure, but at its core, it’s about thinks we all feel. And that’s definitely the rock-solid foundation of “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”.

Rating: 4/ 5

Movie Review - Crime 101

Director: Bart Layton
Genre: Crime/ Drama/ Thriller
Runtime: 140 minutes
Year: 2026
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, Barry Keoghan, Nick Nolte, Tate Donovan, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Monica Barbaro
 
Description: An elusive thief (Chris Hemsworth), eyeing his final score, encounters a disillusioned insurance broker (Halle Berry) at her own crossroads. As their paths intertwine, a relentless detective (Mark Ruffalo) trails them hoping to thwart the multi-million dollar heist they are planning.
 
Review: “Crime 101” is a breath of fresh air for fans of the classic noir genre. Based on the novella by Don Winslow, the film offers an intelligent and atmospheric cat-and-mouse game reminiscent of classics like Michael Mann’s “Heat”, yet retains its own distinct identity.

Chris Hemsworth plays a thief. Moving away from his typical high-action superhero persona, Hemsworth portrays a character defined by meticulousness and social complexity. He is a very disciplined jewel thief, who swears by a strict code of honor. Opposite him is detective Lou Lubesnick, played by Mark Ruffalo, whose obsession with the case is palpable. Halle Berry, as Sharon, somehow comes on the path of both. Barry Keoghan, as the unpredictable and violent rival, brings a much-needed dose of danger and tension to the story. The chemistry between the cast is one of the film’s greatest assets.

Director Bart Layon transforms Los Angeles into a characters in its own right. The cinematography captures the city as a place of dark magic and sprawling highways, which amplifies the sultry atmosphere.

The film excels in atmosphere, rather than over-the-top CGI spectacle. It focuses on the characters, their development, over unrealistic action. It’s not even an action movie, the main character doesn’t use any violence. It’s a crime drama, with thriller elements.

“Crime 101” is tightly directed, beautifully acted and with a focus on character development over cheap action. Despite the pacing be rather slow (which I actually liked), the film might be one of the most satisfying films of the year.

Rating: 4/ 5

00s Movie Review - Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Director: Michel Gondry
Genre: Drama/ Romance/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 108 minutes
Year: 2004
Starring: Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Tom Wilkinson, Kirsten Dunst, Mark Ruffalo, Elijah Wood, Jane Adams, David Cross

Description: When their relationship turns sour, a couple undergoes a medical procedure to have each other erased from their memories forever.

Review: What I would call this genre? Science Fiction/ Romance maybe? “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” explores the value of painful memories. Joel and Clementine are in a relationship, but when things turn bad they decide to erase each other from their memory. Director Michel Gondry and screenwriter Charlie Kaufman created a visually striking, dreamlike film.

Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet should not be matching, but they do. Perfectly so. Carrey shows a surprising subdued side of himself, while Winslet brings color and energy to the film. It’s a unique, sometimes chaotic film about the complexity of love and the resilience of the human spirit. It prompts reflection on whether erasing painful memories is desirable.

I think we can say the “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” can be considered a modern classic. I believe everyone who loves cinema should see this film at least once.

Rating: 5/ 5

Movie Review - Mickey 17

Director: Bong Joo Ho
Genre: Science Fiction/ Comedy/ Drama/ Adventure/ Action
Runtime: 137 minutes
Year: 2025
Starring: Robert Pattinson, Mark Ruffalo, Toni Collette, Steven Yeun, Naomi Ackie
 
Description: During a human expedition to colonize space, Mickey 17 (Robert Pattinson), a so-called “expendable” employee, is send to explore an ice planet.
 
Review: South Korean filmmaker Bong Joo Ho follow up his masterpiece “Parasite” with lighter and less layered viewing material. “Mickey 17” is a science fiction comedy more in tune with “Okja” and contains similar satirical ingredients to “Snowpiercer”. However, the whole thing has nowhere near the drama of the latter film, or the emotional impact of “The host”. But no worry, “Micky 17” is highly entertaining popcorn cinema.

The new Bong Joon Ho seems like a blend between “Moon” by Duncan Jones and Paul Verhoeven’s “Starship Troopers”. The story came from the mind of American writer Edward Ashton. Protagonist is Mickey Barnes, a no to savvy guy who signed on to pursue the unappealing profession of Expendable. That means he is employable for the most dangerous jobs or experiments that are usually deadly. If Mickey dies, they just print a new version of, preserving memories.

When Mickey is sent to the ice planet Nifelheim with a crew of colonists led by Kenneth Marshall and his manipulative wife Ylfa, something goes wrong. Mickey, who is now on his seventeenth life, ends up in a rift and is written off. However, he manages to survive, returns to his base and collides with Mickey 18. This is a serious problem, as Multiples are not allowed to stay alive, by the rules of Marshall’s regime.

Bong’s critique of neofascism, which was also covered in “The Host” and “Snowpiercer”, takes on a more cartoonish approach here. The ultra-narcissist Kenneth Marshall, who seems like a parody mix of Donald Trump and Elon Musk, is the biggest example of that. Mark Ruffalo  really did a great job doing so (he is a well-know Trump-hater). Robert Pattinson is also very good as Mickey Barnes.

Bong has set the bar so high with all his past work that it becomes difficult to consider “Mickey 17” one of his great films. Well-made? Yes. Entertaining? Most definitely. Witty? For the most part. Interesting? Overall, yes. The film touches on topical themes and works them into an entertaining popcorn sci-fi adventure. But also buries them under superficiality and silly stuff. A fun film, but it’s not one for the books.  

Rating: 3,5/ 5

Movie Review - Poor Things

Director: Yorgos Lanthimos
Genre: Comedy/ Drama
Runtime: 141 minutes
Year: 2024
Starring: Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Mark Ruffalo, Ramy Youssef
 
Description: An account of the fantastical evolutions of Bella Baxter (Emma Stone), a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe).

Review: The intense cinematography takes some getting used to. The Victorian world in which monstrous Dr. Godwin Baxter conducts scientific experiments. There are all sorts of strange creatures running around that he has pieced together himself. His latest creation is Bella, brought to life, stomping around the house adrift and throwing everything around like a toddler. Everything is painfully sharp and oppressively portrayed.

Bella is a child inside a grown woman’s body, literally. She develops from a little girl to an adult in a very short period of time, has no understanding about social conventions, has to refine her motor skills. A toddler in a grown woman’s body is frightening and disruptive to watch, but Emma Stone at the same time makes her completely disarming in her dumbfounding looks when she is not allowed to do or say something. Stone won an Academy Award for her role as Bella, which makes perfect sense. She master the art of portraying Bella, she keeps you completely enthralled. She puts everything in her facial expressions and motor skills. It’s also a very daring role for Stone. She was already my favorite, but no one can beat her now. Stone is fantastic in “Poor Things”.

Willem Dafoe plays Bella’s father/ creator. For some reason Dafoe fits this film and its style perfectly. Mark Ruffalo plays the scummy lawyer Duncan Wedderburn, a completely different role for Ruffalo. He is also really strong.

“Poor Things” is wonderfully directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. His previous works, such as “The Killing of a Sacred Deer”, The Favourite” and “The Lobster” are also masterful pieces of art. But “Poor Things” will most likely become a new classic. For the average moviegoer this will be way too weird, because it’s a very weird film. But the good kind and I absolutely loved “Poor Things”. I already had high expectations, but it exceeded them.

Rating: 5/ 5

10s Movie Review - Shutter Island

Director: Martin Scorsese
Genre: Drama/ Thriller
Runtime: 138 minutes
Year: 2010
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley, Emily Mortimer, Michelle Williams, Max von Sydow, Jackie Earle Haley, Elias Koteas, Patricia Clarkson

Description: A U.S Marshal (Leonardo DiCaprio) investigates the disappearance of a murderess who escaped from a hospital for the criminally insane

Review: Every Martin Scorsese project interests me somehow. “Shutter Island” is different from his other films. It’s based on a novel by Dennis Lehane.

Federal agent Teddy Daniels has to track down an escaped psychiatric patient, together with his partner Chuck Aule. The task sounds simple, but an asylum for the criminally insane isn’t the most pleasant place to investigate. With that, it’s also the most guarded asylum, set on an island. It’s almost impossible to stay unfound.

Martin Scorsese is playing Clue with his audience. A fort, morbid prisoners, no way out and hint after hint to lead us to the suspect. It’s a thriller and it gives you a creepy feeling. The patient are really messed up. The atmosphere is unpleasant, which is good for the movie experience.

Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo form a steady base as agents. Especially DiCaprio seems to grow in every role he plays for Scorsese. Ben Kingsley and Max von Sydow are probably the stars, although they have smaller roles.

“Shutter Island” is a fantastic thriller, with great twists. It’s actually one of my favorite Scorsese film.

Rating: 4,5/ 5

10s Movie Review - The Normal Heart

Director: Ryan Murphy
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 122 minutes
Year: 2014
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Matt Bomer, Jim Parsons, Joe Mantello, Taylor Kitsch, Julia Roberts, Jonathan Groff, B.D. Wong

I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2022 MOVIE CHALLENGE.
WEEK 27: A MOVIE ABOUT A HISTORICAL FIGURE

Description: A gay activist (Mark Ruffalo) attempts to raise H.I.V. and A.I.D.S. awareness during the early 1980s

Review: Nowadays, with the right medications, you can live a respectable age when being diagnosed with HIV or AIDS. But back in the 1980s, when the disease first manifested itself, that was a different story. At that time AIDS was called ‘gay cancer’ and more and more people saw the mysterious virus invade their lives. The truth behind the origin of this disease remained unknown for a long time, especially since it took some time for AIDS and HIV to be recognized. Someone who played a major role in putting both diseases on the map is the American writer and activist Larry Kramer, who this story is based on, only now with fictional characters.  

In “The Normal Heart” it’s Ned Weeks, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, a political activist and writer. We meet him in the summer of ’81, joining a party in Long Island. He reads articles about a mysterious cancer, that exclusively affects homosexuals. He sees the seriousness of this disease and decides to consult doctor Emma Brookner. She researches the disease and discovers that there is more to it. She asks Ned to warn the gay community about the disease.

As the disease gets closer and closer to his own group of friends, Ned takes actions. Not much help comes. The city of New York and the Reagan administration refuse to recognize the disease. He seeks supports of his brother Ben, a lawyer. But even with the strong bond they have, Ben finds it hard to understand Ned’s orientation. Reporter Felix Turner, whom he later gets in a relationship with, is willing to help.

“The Normal Heart” is a project that director Ryan Murphy put his entire heart and soul in. And it’s visible. Not only because of him, also thanks to Mark Ruffalo, who is really impressive as Ned Weeks. He is supported by a strong cast, where Jim Parsons and Joe Mantello really stand out. Murphy doesn’t shy away from portraying the horrors that AIDS brings. But the main strength lies in the screenplay.

Rating: 4/ 5

10s Movie Review - The Avengers

Director: Joss Whedon
Genre: Action/ Adventure/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 141 minutes
Year: 2012
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, Jeremy Renner, Samuel L. Jackson, Coby Smulders, Tom Hiddleston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Stellen Skarsgård, Paul Bettany, Clark Gregg

Description: Earth's mightiest heroes must come together and learn to fight as a team if they are to stop the mischievous Loki and his alien army from enslaving humanity.

Review: In “The Avengers” a group of superheroes take on demigod Loki. Lead by S.H.I.E.L.D., Thor, Iron Man, Hulk, Captain America, Black Widow and Hawkeye try to overcome their differences and work together to save mankind.
It’s hard, without a doubt, to balance a movie with so many iconic characters. Director and scriptwriter Joss Whedon succeeded. All characters get enough background. Result: a movie that will be loved by insiders ánd outsiders. People who know the material will love, but newcomers will also enjoy this movie.
The cast has already proven to be capable of portraying their characters. Robert Downey Jr. as smooth talker Tony Stark aka Iron Man. Chris Hemsworth as Thor, with a somewhat dry sense of humor. Chris Evans as Steve Rogers aka Captain America, perfect choice for the role and a good leader. Scarlett Johansson is wonderful as Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow. New are Mark Ruffalo, as Bruce Banner/ The Hulk, and Jeremy Renner as Clint Barton/ Hawkeye. Both great additions to the movie.
Although “The Avengers” is over 140 minutes long, time flies. The movie is visually stunning, has lots of action and a good dose of humor. “The Avengers” is worth your time, every minute of it.

Rating: 5/ 5

Movie Review - The Adam Project

Director: Shawn Levy
Genre: Science Fiction/ Action/ Adventure
Runtime: 106 minutes
Year: 2022
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner, Zoe Saldana, Catherine Keener, Walter Scobell

I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2022 MOVIE CHALLENGE

WEEK 12: A NETFLIX-ORIGINAL MOVIE

Description: After accidentally crash-landing in 2022, time-traveling fighter pilot Adam Reed (Ryan Reynolds) teams up with his 12-year-old self (Walter Scobell) for a mission to save the future.

Review: Anyone who goes to see a movie starring Ryan Reynolds knows what to expect: sarcasm, self-conscious commentary, and many jokes. Whether you like Reynolds or not, you have to admit: his talent for verbally annoying others is undeniable. In the infectious Netflix time-travel film “The Adam Project”, he finally gets a big mouth back. From his 12-year-old self.
The films opens in 2050. Fighter pilot Adam Reed has just stolen a jet and is skimming through space, with an angry pursuer in his wake. Reed is injured, but manages to narrowly escape by flying into a wormhole, which lands him in the year 2022. There he sees how his life as an adolescent once was: playing video games, taking beatings in the schoolyard and making irritating jokes to annoy his grieving mother. 
The conversations he has with himself are deliciously caustic. “How did you get so smart?” asks Adam at one point to his younger self, wo which the latter responds with: How did you get so stupid?” It’s not often we see an exasperated Ryan Reynolds twist himself into so many turns to win an argument with another on the basis of wit. It lends the film a surprising amount of sass.
The dialogue-rich “The Adam Project” is also self-aware enough to poke fun at its own internal logic; time travel causes plot holes one way or another. The longer you dwell on it, the more inconsistencies you will find. The open naming of such pitfalls is a smart move, because it takes the wind out of the sails of even the most skeptical viewers.
Sometimes it gets a bit much, all that bickering. The holy adage ‘show don’t tell’ would have deserved more compliance in that sense. On the other hand, the dynamic between Ryan Reynolds and the talented young Walter Scobell is actually much too funny not to maximize. Besides, you get your share of action in the end, albeit in modest doses.
Fortunately, those action scenes are very smoothly, skillfully and flashily portrayed by Shawn Levy, the director with whom Reynolds previously made the entertaining “Free Guy”. Adam and Adam are on the run from a bunch of futuristic soldiers, let by a villain with rather predictable motives: power and money. And the way the created a younger version of Catherine Keener’s characters is really bad.
The latter is a major weakness in a film that really isn’t so much about action or messing with timeless as it is about dealing with personal trauma. In the final phase, Ryan Reynolds is allowed to squeeze out a few tears and the scope of his performance turns out to be broader than expected. Behind that big mouth, there is of course a lot more hidden. No matter, sometimes it pays to be a nerd.

Rating: 3,5/ 5

00s Movie Review - The Last Castle

Director: Rod Lurie
Genre: Drama/ Action/ Thriller
Runtime: 131 minutes
Year: 2001
Starring: Robert Redford, James Gandolfini, Mark Ruffalo, Delroy Lindo, Clifton Collins Jr., Steve Burton, Robin Wright, George W. Scott

Description: A court-martialed General (Robert Redford) rallies together twelve hundred inmates to rise against a corrupt and sadistic warden (James Gandolfini).

Review: Eugene Irwin is a general who, through everything he has done for his country, has become a national hero. But by making one mistake he became a prisoner. Irwin must serve his sentence in the military prison ‘The Castle”, where Colonel Winter is in command. Irwin is brought in by Winter with the necessary respect. But when Irwin has his opinion about Winter’s collection of war weapons, it’s clear Irwin’s time is not going to be easy.
Irwin discovers that Winter enforces the concept of order and authority on the prisoners in a violent and manipulative way. At first, Irwin doesn’t want to interfere and just serve his sentence quietly. However, when Irwin stands up for the young soldier Aguilar, he is mercilessly punished by Winter. Irwin endures the ordeal with his head held high and thus gains more and more respect from his fellow inmates. After Aguilar is shot by one of the guards, Irwin can no longer ignore it and he takes control.
“The Last Castle” is a great film, combing impressive acting talent with spectacular action. It’s a captivating film, despite a high degree of predictability. The structure of the story is good, wonderful camera work and excellent performances by Robert Redford, James Gandolfini, Mark Ruffalo and Delroy Lindo.

Rating: 3,5/ 5

TV Show Review - I Know This Much is True (Mini Series)

Season: Mini Series
Genre: Drama
Number of episodes: 6
Year: 2020
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Kathryn Hahn, Melissa Leo, John Procaccino, Rosie O’Donnell, Juliette Lewis, Imogen Poots, Archie Panjabi, Bruce Greenwood

Description: Middle-aged Dominick Birdsey (Mark Ruffalo) recounts his troubled relationship with Thomas (also Mark Ruffalo), his paranoid schizophrenic twin brother, and his efforts to get him released from an asylum.

Review: If Mark Ruffalo doesn’t get an Emmy for this, I don’t know anymore. In the drama series “I Know This Much is True”, Ruffalo plays a double role.
The first episode of “I Know This Much is True” is a test whether this series is for you or not. This mini-series shows a lot of misery and misfortune and if you can’t handle that, skip it. The brothers Birdsey, both portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, don’t have a happy life.
We come to know that the twins never found out who their biological father is. Dominick and Thomas were raised by their mother and their harsh stepfather Ray. Thomas is schizophrenic and extremely paranoid, which dominate Dominick’s life and it always had a negative influence on his life. But a new low is reached when Thomas cuts off his hand in a library and he is send to a strictly guarded institution.
“I Know This Much is True” is based on a book, which was edited by director Derek Cianfrance, who is know for movies like “Blue Valentine” and “The Place Beyond the Pines” (also not very happy stories). Cianfrance doesn’t hold back in showing everything the brother go through and that makes this drama very heavy. That’s why this series is not for everyone. But when you do sit through it, you are rewarded with a beautiful story.
The care for his brother has been a burden for Dominick all his life. And every time he wants to distance himself, it seems something bad happens. His marriage suffers from it as well.
But he is not alone. When he needs help, there are his ex Dessa, his best friend Leo, his brother’s doctor and even his stepfather. He also has a manuscript that was written by his late grandfather, that is being translated from Italian to English, where he tells the story of how he came to America. That way, Dominick tries to put all the pieces of his family history together. He hopes his depressing life will be given more meaning.
This is a series that you don’t let go easily. And you really need to sit down and focus for this in order the be able to take it all in. Mark Ruffalo is amazing. I can see that Ruffalo gave his all while portraying both the struggling Dominick and schizophrenic Thomas. You actually see two different people, instead of just seeing the same actor twice with a different look. This is a lesson in acting.
Trust me, don’t miss this series, if you can handle it.

Ranking the Franchise - Thor

I just rewatched all the “Thor” movies. And although it’s not one of the most consistent Marvel franchises, it is spectacular and memorable. This franchise is not finished yet, so I will probably ‘rerank’ this series when “Thor: Love and Thunder” is released. But for now, here is my ranking of the three “Thor” movies we already have.

3. Thor: The Dark World (2013)
There is enough to enjoy in this sequel, but in general it’s a bit bland. And the villain, Malekith, isn’t very interesting and we don’t really get to know much about him. Chris Hemsworth does feel more comfortable in his role and the final confrontation is pretty cool.

2. Thor (2011)
A film like this makes or breaks with its leading man. And with Chris Hemsworth they got the perfect guy. Not only is her one of the most beautiful people Hollywood has to offer, but he’s also charismatic and can easily carry a film this big. “Thor” is a great first film in a series.

1. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
When a sequel disappoints, it’s a very bold step to add another sequel and totally spin it around. That’s what director Taika Waititi did for “Thor: Ragnarok”. And I think all the Gods for bringing him in, because he dared to takes risks, add humor and self-mockery and make it a more colorful world. “Thor: Ragnarok” isn’t only the best movie centering its hero, but it’s also one of the best MCU movies to date. And are we lucky to have Waititi back for “Thor: Love and Thunder”.

Movie Review - Dark Waters

Director: Todd Haynes
Genre: Drama/ Thriller
Runtime: 126 minutes
Year: 2019
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Tim Robbins, Bill Camp, Anne Hathaway, Mare Winningham, Bill Pullman, Victor Garber

Description: Corporate defense attorney Rob Bilott (Mark Ruffalo) takes on an environmental lawsuit against a chemical company that exposes a lengthy history of pollution.

Review: Wilbur Tennant is a farmer from Parkersburg, West Virginia, who has been trying to find out for years what keeps killing his cows. It has to do something with the chemical factory nearby, he thinks, but nobody wants to help him in his search for the truth. The factory is part of chemical company DuPont. They’re not only an important employer in the region, but also a generous giver for places like playgrounds and libraries. The company has the people in its power and there is no independent chemist or environmental specialist in the area.
Ultimately Tennant gets help from an unexpected source: Robert Bilott, an attorney at a big company in Cincinnati, Ohio. At first out of common courtesy, because his grandmother is from Parkensburg. Bilott is a corporate defense attorney who normally defends companies like DuPont. He thinks he can do this job quickly, but then he sees Tennant’s cows. Convulsing, agressive and with abnormalities in their teeth and eyes. It becomes clear that he is in a minefield.
And a big one. The DuPont case started in 1999 and is still, to the date, not finalized. And the story is astounding. The billion dollar company had been using a chemical called PFOA since the 50s, to produce Teflon, while their own research showed that the substance was extremely dangerous. The American environmental department didn’t do anything, they started checking since 1976 and only to companies that reported chemicals with a high risk factor.
Actor Mark Ruffalo read about the case in 2016 and initiated filming. As a co-producer he managed to get director Todd Haynes to join him and Ruffalo himself plays the role of Rob Bilott. He has played the role of hero before, as Hulk. But this hero role is a more modest, contained and reluctant version. Without any trace of vanity, Ruffalo depicts Bilott as un inconspicuous, introspective man with a worried look, whose work obsession almost cost him his marriage and health.
Anne Hathaway, at first, seems to have a very thankless role, as the wife of Bilott. But as the story develops her role becomes more important and Hathaways performance has more substance. Bill Camp, as Wilbur Tennant, is also a performance to mention. Very solid and convincing and a man you can really empathize with. And I liked seeing Tim Robbins again, since you don’t see him in many movies these days.
Haynes’ direction is also anything but exuberant. Carefully and without fuss, “Dark Waters” follows the fact. The lack of outward display is probably the reason why this fantastic film has been overlooked by the Academy.
Haynes doesn’t need any fuss to impress. This whistleblower drama is very strong and this chilling thriller is also a very important film. Everyone should see this film, because its conclusion is very disturbing and scary.

Rating: 4,5 / 5

00s Movie Review - Zodiac

Director: David Fincher
Genre: Drama/ Thriller/ Crime
Runtime: 158 minutes
Year: 2007
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo, Anthony Edwards, Brian Cox, Clea DuVall, Adam Goldberg, Elias Koteas, Dermot Mulroney, Chloë Sevigny, Ione Skye, John Carroll Lynch, Lee Norris, Jimmi Simpson

Description: A San Francisco cartoonist (Jake Gyllenhaal) becomes an amateur detective obsessed with tracking down the Zodiac killer.

Review: With “Zodiac”, director David Fincher brings us yet another engrossing film. It’s the story of a mysterious serial killer in San Francisco. It illustrates one of the most intriguing unsolved homicide cases of the US.
With his harassing letters, riddles, puzzles and codes, the San Francisco serial killer kept cops, journalists and civilians on the edge of their seats for years. “Zodiac” starts with some gruesome murders, which are very well shot. The killer demands that his messages are put on the front of some newspapers and threatens to kill more people if they don’t obey him. Fincher chose to tell the story from the perspective of the people who were involved in the case and what impact it had on their lives.
The cast of “Zodiac” has been carefully selected and they chose the right actors. The immense popular Jake Gyllenhaal plays a good role as the young unexperienced cartoonist Robert Graysmith. Robert Downey Jr. is Paul Avery, a journalist at ‘The Chronicle’ and is characterized by his self-destructive and irreverent character. With dry humor, arrogance and willfulness Downey Jr. is an enjoyable asshole. Mark Ruffalo is the best actor in the film, as infamous inspector David Toschi. Together with his colleague he is working on the Zodiac case, day and night.
The acting is strong, but the atmosphere is even stronger. He combines dark, grim and violent scenes with scenes in the streets of San Francisco and the meeting room at ‘The Chronicle’. With that, Fincher handles the way of the suspects and suspicion very well. The only problem I had was the length of the film. Towards the end, you start to feel it.
David Fincher succeeds to create an intriguing and intelligent thriller, about a very interesting case. “Zodiac” is an amazing film.

Rating: 4/ 5

Movie Reviews - Avengers: Endgame

Director: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Genre: Action/ Adventure
Runtime: 181 minutes
Year: 2019
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson, Karen Gillan, Danai Gurira, Bradley Cooper, Josh Brolin, Tessa Thompson, Evangeline Lilly, Pom Klementieff, Tom Holland, Jon Favreau, Elizabeth Olsen, Dave Bautista, Sebastian Stan, Michelle Pfeiffer, Katherine Langford, Tilda Swinton, Letitia Wright, Kerry Condon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Chadwick Boseman, Winston Duke, Frank Grillo, Ty Simpkins, Sean Gunn, Emma Fuhrmann, Hiroyuki Sanada, Benedict Wong

Description: After the devastating events, the universe is in ruins. With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers assemble once more in order to undo Thanos' actions and restore order to the universe.

Review: “Avengers: Endgame” isn’t only the finale to last year’s “Avengers: Infinity War”, it’s also the end of the journey that film studio Marvel started eleven years ago together with its many fans. “Avengers: Endgame” is supposed to be a tribute to all the experiences and memories we have from the past years in this universe.
Thanos left a dystopian world behind with the snap of his fingers. The titan completed his mission, perfectly balanced out life and the Avengers have been defeated for the first time. And it paid its toll, because the superheroes have obviously suffered from it. They are broken, damaged. Nonetheless the team is determined to defeat their nemesis once and for all, after a new sign of hope.
The Marvel universe grew over the years, but “Avengers: Endgame” focuses on the six original Avengers. They don’t need any introduction and are the praised characters it all started with. The playing field is known and the returning directing Russo brothers don’t pay a lot of attention on background stories. This film is simply for the fans.
“Avengers: Endgame” is a true Marvel film. Humor, sharp dialogues, extravaganza, spectacle. And it has sky high ambitions. Somehow some elements feel uninspired. No introduction to Captain Marvel and Tony and Nebula’s return feel unsatisfying. And some developments don’t live up to our expectations or rules of logic.
I didn’t like what they did to Bruce Banner/ Hulk. It felt weird and I really don’t understand the choice for this. I did like the sacrifice one character made. Thinking it was going to be the other one, it was a cool twist that it eventually turned around. And Scott Lang’s role in the story was pretty cool.
During the end fight, they go all out. It’s a fantastic moment and the definite highlight of the film. The moment where Captain America says ‘Avengers assemble’, that just gave me goosebumps. An epic fight, a great finale.
In “Avengers: Infinity War” the focus was on Thanos, but here the attention had to be divided over several characters. Some protentional plot points have been sacrificed because of that. The end of the film is really strong and it feels like a perfect ending. And it is one final tribute to the Marvel universe. But from the last minutes of the film, you can also conclude that Marvel is not done with new stories yet. So it’s not really the end, but a new beginning.

Rating: 4/ 5

Movie Reviews - Avengers: Infinity War

Director: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Genre: Action/ Adventure/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 149 minutes
Year: 2018
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Don Cheadle, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Holland, Chadwick Boseman, Zoe Saldana, Karen Gillan, Chris Pratt, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, Josh Brolin, Tom Hiddleston, Paul Bettany, Elisabeth Olsen, Anthony Mackie, Idris Elba, Sebastian Stan, Danai Gurira, Peter Dinklage, Pom Klementieff, Dave Bautista, Gwyneth Paltrow

Description: The Avengers and their allies must be willing to sacrifice all in an attempt to defeat the powerful Thanos before his blitz of devastation and ruin puts an end to the universe.

Review: “Avengers: Infinity War” is a milestone in movie history. Eighteen Marvel movies come together, they have connections and ready for the big finale. And it’s literally the fate of the universe that’s at stake. But it’s nothing completely new, because it’s a big, colorful blockbuster film filled with amazing characters, sharp dialogues and a huge spectacle. And there is nothing wrong with that formula.
At the end of “The Avengers”, Thanos showed his face for the first tim. And he is finally here to execute his evil plans. In order to balance out the universe, he is looking for six so-called Infinity Stones. They’ve been a part of several Marvel films already. Some of the stones are on earth, so it doesn’t take long for an attack on planet earth and the Avengers have to start fighting. And although the Avengers split up, there are a lot more superheroes that they can rely on. Almost every hero we met in all those movies, is in “Avengers: Infinity War”.
Does it work, so many characters in one movie? You wouldn’t think so, but somehow it does and they found a good balance: the characters are scattered and devided up in four groups, who will meet each other. In some cases, the heroes know each other. But there are also new collaborations. Like Tony Stark and Peter Quill. And their interaction is worth the wait. But Thor and Rocket are an even more entertaining duo. And if all the info from the other Marvel movies isn’t that fresh anymore, they characters just simply explain to each other so that you can catch up.
Thanos as the main villain was all I hoped for. Josh Brolin nailed it!
Directing brother Joe and Anthony Russo take on the role of directors and they have proven before they understand the Marvel Universe well with two of the three Captain America movies.
“Avengers: Infinity War” is an excellent first half of an epic battle. And I’m really excited and curious for the next film.

Rating: 4,5 / 5

100 Movie Challenge 2017 - # 116: Thor: Ragnarok

Director: Taika Waititi
Genre: Action/ Science Fiction/ Adventure
Runtime: 130 minutes
Year: 2017
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Idris Elba, Jeff Goldblum, Mark Ruffalo, Anthony Hopkins, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tessa Thomspon, Karl Urban, Ray Stevenson, Clancy Brown

Description: Imprisoned, the almighty Thor (Chris Hemsworth) finds himself in a lethal gladiatorial contest against the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), his former ally. Thor must fight for survival and race against time to prevent the all-powerful Hela (Cate Blanchett) from destroying his home and the Asgardian civilization.

Review: Innovation and variation is becoming harder within the superhero genre. In the past 10 years, Marvel has brought us 17 movies. Because the characters keep meeting each other in each other’s movies, there is a chance the films lose their identity and become disposable. But Marvel has realized this and are heading into a different direction.
“Thor”Ragnarok” is a bit of a gamble. It’s a complete different route for the God of thunder, because it’s an unprecedented humoristic trip through the cosmos. And it’s a very welcome surprise, because continuing on the same way as “Thor: The Dark World” is simply not an option. Because that would mean that naïve Thor would fall for Loki’s shams all over again, when at the end of the first Avengers film, this relationship has been settled more the less.
All elements that are a threat to the levity of the film, have been removes and are just side issues. For instance, love interest Jane Foster isn’t in it and I’m not missing her.
“Thor: Ragnarok” left all seriousness aside, which makes it a good comedy with action in it. And that's all thanks to New Zealander Taika Waititi, who also directed “Hunt For the Winlderpeople”. And I love this director’s humor. He also voices one of the funnier characters in the movie.
Most memorable is the scene where Thor sees Hulk in the arena and adding the green hero to this film is a great addition. It’s fun to see a different side from him.
The biggest plus is that the world of Thor has become more colorful, in every way of the word. “Thor: Ragnarok” is the best in the trilogy and one of the best in the Marvel Cinemativ Universe. What an awesome movie!

Rating: 4,5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2015 - # 53: Avengers: Age of Ultron

Director: Joss Whedon

Genre: Action/ Science Fiction/ Adventure

Runtime: 141 minutes

Year: 2015

Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans,Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johannson, Jeremy Renner, James SPader, Samuel L. Jackson, Coby Smulders, Don Cheadle, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Anthony Mackie, Hayley Atwell, Stellan Skarsgard, Claudia Kim, Thomas Kretschmann, Andy Serkis, Linda Cardellini

Description: When Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and it is up to the Avengers to stop the villainous Ultron from enacting his terrible plans.

Review: “The Avengers” was a huge success. A grand, funny, lively superhero movie with colorful characters. It was unique and exciting to see all those larger-than-life characters together in one film. And now they are back in “Avengers: Age of Ultron”, to save the world again. Will Joss Whedon succeed again? In two words: hell yeah!

We get the same ingredients: Tony Stark/ Iron Man makes sharp remarks, Steve Rogers/ Captain America tries to do everything by the book, Thor is the macho who as a God feels more majestic then the rest, Bruce Banner/ Hulk tries to control his anger and Natasha Romanoff/ Black Widow is the kick-ass chick of the group. A well-known formula with the perfect actors to play the roles. The action is out of control: fighting, flying, demolishing, lots of spectacular action scenes. The opening scene was so amazing, you are right in the middle of it all. And that action is combined very well with comedy.

The introduction of the villain, the titular Ultron voiced by James Spader, is fascinating. He is a pretty scary villain and powerful. Spader does a great job voicing the character.

Joss Whedon gave some of the characters, that don’t have standalone films yet, a bigger role then the first movie. We get to know Clint Barton/ Hawkeye a bit better and he also has some good one-liners. Black Widow doesn’t only get more physical scenes, but also gets more depth. Her connection with Bruce Banner also gets more depth. Do we need a love arch in this action packed movie? Why not, it’s only minor.

New characters Quicksilver and Scarlett Witch add, besides new cool superpowers, also an interesting dramatic and moral component to the story. They could have used a bit more depth.

With this many characters in one movie, it’s a challenge to not make it superficial or let one character overshadow another character. Whedon managed to give each character a development, more depth or a memorable moment.

“Avengers”Age of Ultron” is highly enjoyable movie. A perfect cast, a huge amount of action, fun humor. I could think of a lot of worse thing to do in 141 minutes.

Rating: 4,5/ 5

Video of the Week (41)

With "Avengers: Age of Ultron" coming soon, the stars from the movie visit shows. This time it's Jimmy Kimmel. Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo play a game of Family Feud. Hilarious!

 

 

100 Movie Challenge 2015 - # 29: Foxcatcher

Director: Bennett Miller

Genre: Drama

Runtime: 134 minutes

Year: 2014

Starring: Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo, Sienna Miller, Vanessa Redgrave, Anthony Michael Hall

Description: The greatest Olympic Wrestling Champion brother team joins Team Foxcatcher led by multimillionaire sponsor John E. du Pont (Steve Carell) as they train for the 1988 games in Seoul - a union that leads to unlikely circumstances.

Review: “Foxcatcher” starts with the message that the movie is based on a true story. Dangerous, because the genre of sports movies often fall into clichés and a lazy story. “Foxcatcher” manages to avoid it for a big part. That’s because the story doesn’t only focus on wrestler Mark Schultz, it also centers coach John Du Pont. Mark leads a lonely and apparent agonized life. Everything is about sports. It gets him a gold medal at the Olympics in 1984. Years later it’s just train, eat, sleep for Mark. Untill he gets a mysterious call that changes his life forever. The call is from John Du Pont, an eccentric millionaire with big plans for Mark and wrestling in general. Du Pont, rich due to arms trade, decides to sponsor the wrestler.

There is a reason for that. Wrestling isn’t only a passion, their characters match. DuPont is also a loner. Where Mark has no one else besides his brother, Du Pont has a similar past. Together the two outsiders complement each other and manage to be successful. With excellence, intensity and dominance the world is at their feet. Until all of this also affects their mutual relationship. What started as a dream, is slowly turning into a nightmare.

Although the tension isn’t always there and some supporting characters don’t really work, the story is solid. An extra plus is the sublime acting. Steve Carell convinces, in this unconventional, serious role. Mark Ruffalo also does a very good job. But it’s Channing Tatum that impressed me the most. Off course he has the physique of a wrestler, but he also shows his acting skills. Everyone talks about Carell and Ruffalo, but I think Tatum’s performance was the best.

The developments in the movie, including the wrestle matches, are very detailed. The movie has a dark tone and atmosphere. You feel that throughout the entire movie. Same as the length and slow pace of the movie.

“Foxcatcher” is a powerful movie, with a strong story and great acting. But due to the length and the slow pace I would not rewatch this movie.

Rating: 3,5/ 5