20s Movie Review - Zootopia 2

Director: Jared Bush, Byron Howard
Genre: Animation/ Family/ Adventure
Runtime: 118 minutes
Year: 2025
Starring: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Ke Huy Quan, Fortune Feimster, Andy Samberg, David Strathairn, Shakira, Patrick Warburton, Danny Trejo, Bonnie Hunt

Description: Brave rabbit cop Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and her friend, the fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), team up again to crack a new case, the most perilous and intricate of their careers.

Review: “Zootopia 2” is a fantastic, fast-paced, and socially relevant sequel that lives up to the high expectations set by the first film.

The detective duo Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are back. This time, they dive into a mystery that takes them to a whole new part of their city where the reptiles used to live.

Like its predecessor, the film dares to tackle bold social themes. Topics such as gentrification, abuse of power, and historical segregation are cleverly woven into the plot. Despite the heavy themes, the story remains manageable and understandable for the whole family thanks to its humor.

Adults will revel in the countless pop culture reference and clever puns and there are some new characters like Gary De’Snake and Nibbles Maplestick, bringing a fresh, dynamic energy to the film.

The film is an absolute must-see for Disney fans and people who loved the first “Zootopia” film. Rock-solid humor, stunning animations and a layered message.

Rating: 4/ 5

Movie Review - Masters of the Universe

Director: Travis Knight
Genre: Fantasy/ Science Fiction/ Adventure/ Action
Runtime: 140 minutes
Year: 2026
Starring: Nicholas Galitzine, Camila Mendes, Idris Elba, Alison Brie, Jared Leto
 
Description: A young man (Nicholas Galitzine) on Earth discovers a fabulous secret legacy as the prince of an alien planet, and must recover a magic sword and return home to protect his kingdom.
 
Review: “Masters of the Universe”, a movie that every 80s (and early 90s) kid was looking forward too. And it has turned out to be a wonderfully nostalgic movie that the people who grew up with the cartoon will appreciate to the fullest, because it’s a love letter to the show.

It’s abundantly clear that director Travis Knight is a fan himself. He consciously chooses to take the mythology surrounding Eternia and He-Man seriously, rather than reducing it to a cynical parody. The iconic characters, the colorful costumes, and the epic Sword of Power have been brought to the live-action screen with immense love. I did miss some characters, because the TV show has so many iconic characters. And most side characters that were in this film, don’t get enough time to really shine.

This movie was made for the fans and probably not for today’s youth. Although the action scenes are spectacular, this isn’t a movie that will win over everyone. The film relies heavily on nostalgia. People who didn’t grow up with the original animated series from the 80s, may find the specific tone, the wacky creatures and the campy humor a bit harder to appreciate. To them it might sometimes feel like a somewhat absurd action movie. But for the children of the era, it’s a wonderful, emotional reunion.

The cast is really good. Nicholas Galtzine is a convincing He-Man, Camila Mendes shines as Teela and Alison Brie is delightfully overacting as Evil-Lyn. But all points go to Jared Leto as Skeletor.

What is probably the strongest part of the film, is its soundtrack by Daniel Pemberton and Brian may. It transforms this film from an entertaining trip down memory lane into an epic spectacle. It combines bombastic orchestrations with thick 80s synths and Queen-like melodies. With Brian May on the guitar, who co-wrote the score and weaves his iconic guitar solos throughout. The result is strongly reminiscent of the legendary sound of “Flash Gordon”, but with a modern, powerful dynamic. The music elevates the action scenes to a much higher level and guaranteed to give you goosebumps. I think this soundtrack is an absolute highlight of 2026

“Masters of the Universe”  is not a perfect movie for the average moviegoer, but definitely the ultimate dream for anyone who used to shout “I have the power!”

Rating: 4/ 5

TV Show Review - The Wire (Season 1)

Season: 1
Genre: Drama/ Crime
Number of episodes: 13
Year: 2002
Starring: Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Idris Elba, Sonja Sohn, Wendell Pierce, Seth Gilliam, Domenick Lombardozzi, John Domann, Clarke Peters, Andre Royo, Michael Kenneth Williams, Deirdre Lovejoy

Description: The Baltimore drug scene, as seen through the eyes of drug dealers and law enforcement.
The Baltimore drug scene, as seen through the eyes of drug dealers and law enforcement.

Review: “The Wire” is considered on of the most groundbreaking and realistic drama series every made, and it has been on my watch list for way too long.

“The Wire” is not a standard police series, where each episode a case is investigated and solved. Season 1 focuses on a single, complex drug and murder case in Baltimore over 13 episodes. It shows how both the police and the criminals are stuck in bureaucratic and hierarchical systems.

It’s not simply good vs. bad: the series stands out for its moral nuance. It’s not just black and white, no simple heroes or villains; both the cops and the gang members of the Barksdale organization are portrayed as complex, human characters with their own codes and shortcomings.

The start of the first season can feel a bit slow, but pushing through is definitely worth it. I heard someone describe the show as a visual novel. You have to take the time to know the web of characters; the reward only comes in the second half of the season when all the storylines come together.

The script, characters, and social criticism have depth and you really become invested in it once you’ve gotten through the first few episodes. “The Wire” shows a realistic view of justice. It’s a more layered crime drama and I will most definitely continue to the next season.

Movie Review - Extraction 2

Director: Sam Hargrave
Genre: Action/ Thriller
Runtime: 122 minutes
Year: 2023
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani, Adam Bessa, Olga Kurylenko, Idris Elba
 
Description: After barely surviving his grievous wounds from his mission in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Ryler Rake (Chris Hemsworth) is back, and his team is ready to take on their next mission.

Review: In this second installment on the “Extraction” series, Chris Hemsworth returns as mercenary Tyler Rake, who barely survived his last mission. Now recovered, Tyler and his team are ready for a new mission. “Extraction” was a good film film, but nothing extremely groundbreaking or memorable. “Extraction 2” still doesn’t feel like that, but it surely is a step up from this first film.

Tyler has to safe his ex-wife’s sister from her criminal husband, who has been living in a prison with their two children. What seems like a simple mission, ends up in a blood bath.

“Extraction 2” is full of genre clichés, but it by no means disappoints in the cinematographic department. The fight scenes are all very well-choreographed and especially that outbreak scene in the prison is shot masterfully. They edited in a way it looks like one continues shot and I always love it when that’s done well.

“Extraction 2” is nowhere innovative, Chris Hemsworth does his job very well and so does director Sam Hargrave. And the film keeps you on the edge of your seat at all times. With its raw character, this second installment offers a rebuttal to the streamlined action of recent blockbusters. Despite a contrived plot, it’s a shame that this movie can’t been seen on the big screen. Because the action scenes look amazing.

Better then the first, great visuals, but very predictable.

Rating: 3,5/ 5

Movie Review - Luther: The Fallen Sun

Director: Jamie Payne
Genre: Crime/ Thriller/ Drama/ Mystery
Runtime: 129 minutes
Year: 2023
Starring: Idris Elba, Andy Serkis, Cynthia Erivo
 
Description: Brilliant but disgrace detective John Luther (Idris Elba) breaks out of prison to hunt down a sadistiv serial killer (Andy Serkis) who is terrorizing London.

Review: Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) John Luther is back. After five seasons, Idris Elba may take on the role of the tormented, driven and unorthodox detective one more time. This time in a feature film, where he hunts down a psychopathic serial killer who has his victims picked out by an army of hackers, only to blackmail them with their online secrets and lure them into his sick trap.

That Luther must first escape from a heavily guarded prison to do so is just a detail. In a fairly straightforward manner, he is released, and from then on a multi-level cat and mouse game begins. Luther wants nothing more than to catch the killer, as do his former colleagues. Even though they are also trying to catch Luther, they make clever use of him. Because if they find Luther, then they will most likely find the killer.

This dark thriller does not always excel in credibility, just like the series. Luther always gets away with a lot. And while the entire detective team is still in the dark, halfway through the story he magically sees through the perpetrator’s mindset, motives and next steps. And although Luther is a brilliant detective, it feels a bit too easy, too coincidental.

Still, there is enough to enjoy The atmosphere keeps you on the edge of your seat and the acting is strong. Not only Elba excels, but Andy Serkis also does week as the deranged antagonist. His actual motives might leave you with lots of questions in the end though.

Not a lot of familiar faces return for this film, but since most of Luther’s immediate colleagues and loved ones have died, that’s not such a surprise. But one character I was missing, was Alice Morgan. The interesting dynamic between her and Luther has always been a thread through the series.

“Luther: The Fallen Sun” is probably not the finale that fans were hoping for, but still, it was an enjoyable watch for everyone who has watched the series.

Rating: 3/ 5

Movie Review - Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Director: Jeff Fowler
Genre: Action Comedy Adventure/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 122 minutes
Year: 2022
Starring: Ben Schwarz, James Marsden, Jim Carrey, Idris Elba, Tika Sumpter, Colleen O’Shaughnessy
 
I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2022 MOVIE CHALLENGE
WEEK 28: AN ACTION COMEDY
 
Description: When the manic Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) returns to Earth with a new ally, Knuckles the Echidna (Idris Elbe), Sonic (Ben Schwarz) and his new friends tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessy) is all that stands in their way.

Review: “Sonic the Hedgehog”, which came out in 2020, was one of the first videogame movies that showed there was hope for the genre. A movie I didn’t think I would like, really surprised me and I enjoyed the film very much. And when people respond positively to a movie like this, a sequel will be made. And now, 2022, there is “Sonic the Hedgehog 2”.

Dr. Robotnik is back, with a new ally: Knuckles. Together with his new friend Tails, Sonic has to fight this villain.  

“Sonic the Hedgehog 2” is again a very entertaining movie, with a few fun jokes. And there is enough action for the running time. Jim Carrey is fantastically hilarious as Dr. Robotnik. And adding Knuckles and Tails to the story is also welcome.

Overall, the film, even though entertaining, is a tad too long. The scenes with Sonic’s human friends at a wedding could have been shortened and some could even have been removed. If Sonic was in these scenes too, it would have been more interesting, but they are on an entirely different location and this side-story it takes away from the action and adventure we really want to see.

“Sonic the Hedgehog 2” is a fun family film, an okay sequel.

Rating: 3/ 5

Movie Reviews - The Suicide Squad

Director: James Gunn
Genre: Action/ Adventure
Runtime: 132 minutes
Year: 2021
Starring: Idris Elba, Margot Robbie, Joel Kinnaman, John Cena, Sylvester Stallone, Alica Braga, Viola Davis, Michael Rooker, Peter Capaldi, David Dastmalchian, Pete Davidson, Nathan Fillion, Daniela Melchior, Taika Waititi, Sean Gunn

 
Description: Supervillains Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), Bloodsport (Idris Elba), Peacemaker (John Cena) and a collection of nutty cons at Belle Reve prison join the super-secret, super-shady Task Force X as they are dropped off at the remote, enemy-infused island of Corto Maltese.

Review: It’s not often that a film is released that seems to serve primarily as a retread of its predecessor. Then again, few films fail the way “Suicide Squad” did in 2016. This attempt to provide some differentiation for DC’s superhero line had plenty of potential, but the end result was far from impressive. The screenplay was a hastily written mess, the characters as flat as a dime and the choices for musical accompaniment both arbitrary and ridiculously obvious. And if those flaw didn’t already neck the film, the questionable editing did. In the end, the most memorable thing about the film was Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn.
The film was nevertheless a financial success. The sequel was not immediately made with the same people. The audience would not fall for it so easily the second time around. “The Suicide Squad” functions to some extent as a sequel film (same concept, some returning actors), but one that takes as little notice as possible of its predecessor. To be on the safe side, writer-director James Gun has been enlisted for this second attempt. And he turns out the be the right person in the right place.
This time, the criminal troupe is assigned to a sabotage mission in a South American island state where a coup has recently taken place. That this premise sounds like the average American action film from the 1980s is probably no coincidence. Whereas the productions from the Reagan era took it for granted that American mourners could go about their business overseas, “The Suicide Squad” questions this a lot more. But even apart from all the critical notes that are cracked, this set-up ensures that the mission is completely clear from the start, even when the team members are somewhat in the dark. And when the situation does suddenly take a supernatural turn, it’s an unforeseen complication for which they were not prepared, rather than the film’s loudly stated premise.
Another big improvement is that, unlike his predecessor David Ayer, James Gunn never seems to feel the need to try to portray his characters in a cool way. Thus, the new team consists of all but a few goofy characters in outfits that look anything but intimidating. It is therefore not inconceivable that Gunn explicitly wanted characters that had no plans for film anyway. He succeeds in doing so because he treats the plot with the necessary lightness, but provides characters with sufficient humanity. So this time no visual profiles to show how eccentric the team members are, but just normal introduction scenes and then clear characterization by how these characters deal with the circumstances and each other.
While it is quite plausible that Gunn was hired based on his “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, the success of “The Suicide Squad” is mostly related to his past work. After all, Gunn began his career at Troma Entertainment, which specializes in exploitative horror. And he can draw from that experience for “The Suicide Squad” a lot more than he could from his Marvel films. So keep in mind an extremely brutal and sometimes even grotesque spectacle in which a blood flows richly. Perhaps this orgy of violence will not please everyone, but anyone who is used to it can look forward to a frenzied bloody showdown.
The casting choices are on point. Margot Robbie has of course already proven herself as Harley Quinn and is again magnificent in her role. Idris Elba, who sort of serves as the main character Bloodsport, does a wonderful job as well and his interaction an dynamic with John Cena’s Peacemaker is one of the highlights of the film. I also enjoyed David Dastmalchian and Daniela Melchior, who portrayed Ratcatcher 2 and Polka Dot Man, who did an amazing job in supporting the supervillain team. But the scene stealer is without a doubt King Shark, a walking and talking shark voiced by Sylvester Stallone.
Although all elements have an origin in the DC comics, “The Suicide Squad” rarely feels like a movie version of a superhero world. Guns’ eclectic mix of extreme body violence, bizarre characters, absurdist scenes, nihilistic fun and uncomfortable body horror, which also includes alien life, American imperialism and Nazi experiments in passing, is more reminiscent of a “Rick and Morty” episode. In terms of tone, it’s hardly in keeping with other DC films, but the idea of a consistent shared film universe was already a thing of the past with the first “Suicide Squad”. “The Suicide Squad” is one of the best DC movies, probably even the best since “The Dark Knight”.

Rating: 4,5 / 5

10s Movie Review - Cats

Director: Tom Hooper
Genre: Musical
Runtime: 110 minutes
Year: 2019
Starring: James Corden, Judi Dench, Jason Derulo, Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, Ian McKellen, Francesca Hayward, Taylor Swift, Rebel Wilson, Robbie Fairchild, Ray Winstone

Description: A tribe of cats called the Jellicles must decide yearly which one will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and come back to a new Jellicle life.

I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2020 MOVIE CHALLENGE.
WEEK 52: A MUSICAL

Review: Some movies are better left unseen. And I was warned, I read only bad reviews for “Cats”, but I was curious to how bad it could really be. They sure were exaggerating, right? Well, no.
In 2012, film and theater maker Tom Hooper revolutionized the musical film world with his raw adaptation of “Lés Miserables”.  His approach, in which he let the actors sing live on set and only later added the instrumentation, wasn’t to everyone’s liking, but it was daring. I liked it. It even gave Anne Hathaway an Oscar.
This time, Hooper decided to tackle another classic. In his version of “Cats” we yet again witness are teary eyed soloist during the most famous song of the musical. With Jennifer Hudson’s rendition of “Memory” you have the only highlight of this musical adaptation by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The song passes by twice and the kick-off and reprise re forged together by and endless line of music videos that take advantage of Lloyd Webber’s beautiful music.
Hooper has a different take on this musical than with “Lés Miserables”. This time no approach to reality, but a thin plot about a bunch of street cats trying to choose one of them for a new cat life during a restless London night. The chosen one of a group that calls itself the Jellicles is not so easy to identify. Especially the bad guy Macavity seems to throw a spanner in the works by kidnapping potential candidates. The timid Grizabella feels unseen and Jennyanydots is just a little too confident. Then there is newcomer Victoria who is not yet officially part of the group and can try to have a new life with the Jellicles.
Hooper has taken special digital techniques to shape his cats (and even mice and cockroaches). The first trailer already came with a lot of criticism. And I understand why. The special effect look terrible, the cats look to much like humans. They even have hands instead of paws. And their ears seem to have been given a life of their own. The constantly move. It’s more like something out of a nightmare, then an enchanting musical which it is supposed to be. And because these cats look so much like people, the oversized setpieces make no sense. They are supposed to be the size of our domestic cats, so everything in their environment is blown up. But now it’s just hairy people dancing around large furniture. And the overuse of cat references and cat puns doesn’t really help either.
And why did they torture great actors like Judi Dench, Ian McKellen and Idris Elba with this? “Cats” is one of the worst movies I have seen in the past few years. It’s pure torment. Never see it, even if you’re curious.

Rating: 0,5 / 5

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”.

10s Movie Review - Thor

Director: Kenneth Branagh
Genre: Adventure/ Action/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 115 minutes
Year: 2011
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Kat Dennings, Stellan Skarsgård, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Renee Russo, Idris Elba, Jaime Alexander, Colm Feore, Ray Stevenson, Clark Gregg, Jeremy Renner

Description: The powerful but arrogant Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is cast out of Asgard to live amongst humans in Midgard (Earth), where he soon becomes one of their finest defenders.

Review: Superheroes often carry a big burden. Whether it’s trying to control their super powers or hiding their identity; a hero has a big responsibility and has to deal with that daily. And that’s no different for Thor, the God of thunder.
The fate of the world is again hanging by a thread and the man with the hammer is the one to fight the evil. After he unleashes an ancient war with the Frost Giants, his father Odin banishes him for ignoring his orders and sends him to Earth. There it seems that Thor is unable to handle his hammer Mjolnir, until he shows that he is a true hero will he rekindle his powers.
Thor has a rich background story, as well from Norwegian mythology as the comic books that started in 1962. Thor is the only God amongst the Avengers. He comes from a world other then Earth. His world is visualized amazingly, it looks stunning.
Once Thor joins the Earthlings, there is room for humor. At first, Jane thinks he is a homeless guy, but when S.H.I.E.L.D. shows up Jane knows there is more to him. The humor never overshadows the action and the comedy is mostly very dry and always well-timed.
The creators try to avoid the black and white view on good and evil as much as possible. This makes for an interesting battle between brothers Thor and Loki, even though you know which one embodies good and which one is evil.
This is one of those films that makes or breaks due to the casting of its main hero. Chris Hemsworth stars in his first major role and he is the perfect choice. Hemsworth is undoubtably one of the most beautiful peope Hollywood has to offer, but with that he is also extremely charismatic and has humor that suits his character. Natalie Portman, who plays his love interest Jane, is mostly seen as the better actor of the two, but she never manages to step away from Hemsworth’s shadow. It feels more obligated for her.
“Thor” is a great film, highly entertaining and fun.

Rating: 4 / 5

Movie Reviews - Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw

Director: David Leitch
Genre: Action
Runtime: 137 minutes
Year: 2019
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Vanessa Kirby, Idris Elba, Cliff Curtis, Eddie Marsan, Helen Mirren, Ryan Reynolds, Kevin Hart

Description: Lawman Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) and outcast Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham) form an unlikely alliance when a cyber-genetically enhanced villain (Idris Elba) threatens the future of humanity.

Review: The “Fast & Furious” franchise is an eye-catching phenomenon of modern-day Hollywood. What started out as a film about illegal street races with a few action scenes, is now a million dollar series of almost 10 films, which leans primarily on spectacle and has no credibility left.
“Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw”, like the title suggests, revolves around two of the most popular characters in the franchise: Dwayne Johnson’s flamboyant secret agent Luke Hobbs and Jason Statham’s former soldier slash hitman Deckard Shaw. Against their will, they are teamed up to protect the world from ‘half-robot’ Brixton, who wants to expose mankind to a dangerous virus.
The entry of this villain, played by Idris Elba, shows that the film makers embrace the absurdity that this franchise has become. And nothing separates them from any random Marvel movie, because it’s basically indestructible heroes fighting for world peace. That combined with a dose of humor and funny observations. It even has an after credit scene which hints to a sequel (which we really don’t need, but will get anyway…).
At least the cast is formed by three charismatic leads, even though they do nothing groundbreaking. Johnson and Statham are constantly exchanging cliché heavy one-liners and insult each other. And this gets old after fifteen minutes or so. That scene on the plane, took way too long (and adding Kevin Hart to the party, doesn’t make it better). But that doesn’t add up to what they did with Idris Elba. Elba is a fantastic actor who screams charisma. But his portrayal of bionic villain Brixton is very one-dimensional and absolutely forgettable.
Little note: Ryan Reynolds is really funny. His short appearances adds a half star to the rating.
The action is well choreographed and visualized, but what can you expect from a two-hundred-million dollar budget. The spectacle does look great, but it is sometimes so over-the-top laughable that even the most expensive visual effects look cheap and unbelievable. And the scenes are too long and too much, that it becomes hard to watch.
“Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw” is even more hysterical and over-the-top then its predecessor “Fast & Furious 8”. And although it looks stunning and is entertaining, it never becomes more than a standard action movie that could land on the B-list. At least we got some handsome men.

Rating: 2/ 5

TV Show Review - Luther (Season 3)

Season: 3
Genre: Thriller/ Drama
Number of episodes: 4
Year: 2013
Starring: Idris Elba, Ruth Wilson, Dermot Crowley, Warren Brown, Michael Smiley, Paul McGann, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Sienna Guillory, David O’Hara

Description: DCI John Luther (Idris Elba) is a near-genius murder detective whose brilliant mind can't always save him from the dangerous violence of his passions.

Review: In the third season of “Luther”, John Luther is secretly investigated by his former colleague Erin Gray and her new partner George Stark. They try to get Luther’s loyal partner Justin Ripley to get on board with them.
Like season 2, this season only had four episode and it deals with two cases. The first case follows a serial killer, who copies the murders from the Shereditch Keeper that happened 30 years ago. This is case has some real scary moments, because the killer is pretty creepy During this investigation, Luther is also asked to look into another case. What he doesn’t know is, that Luther was requested by Stark and Gray do investigate this case. This way they want to catch him red handed when he makes a mistake or he shows his unorthodox methods.
The second case deals with a man who suffers from ‘hero complex’. At least that’s what Luther thinks. The suspects murders criminals like pedophiles, who he believes didn’t get the right punishment for the crime.
Luther is also getting a bit of romance in this season, in the form of Mary. Luther gets to know her, when he accidentally hits her car.
The show had a very good finale, mostly thanks to Idris Elba and a surprising return of a beloved character. But overall, this was so far my least favorite season. I loved how they did it in the first season, one case per episode.

TV Show Review - Luther (Season 2)

Season: 2
Genre: Thriller/ Drama
Number of episodes: 4
Year: 2011
Starring: Idris Elba, Ruth Wilson, Dermot Crowley, Warren Brown, Michael Smiley, Paul McGann, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Aimee Ffion-Edwards, Kierston Wareing

Description: DCI John Luther (Idris Elba) is a near-genius murder detective whose brilliant mind can't always save him from the dangerous violence of his passions.

Review: John Luther, a complex man with a complicated personal and professional life. Luther is a very intelligent man, explosive, aggressive, emotional. And in season 2 we get to know the detective a little bit more. His relationship with Alice is strange, but also the relationship between him and Mark.
After the happenings at the end of season 1, we’re back in London and there are some changes. DS Ripley is back in uniform, Alice is in a mental hospital and Luther ‘plays’ Russian roulette with his father’s gun.
Luther wouldn’t be Luther if he didn’t ask Ripley back. Because his loyalty is worth much to Luther. DSU Schenk leads a new team and Luther and Ripley join him. There they meet DS Erin Gray, who does everything by the book, unlike Luther and Ripley.
Season 1 had six episode, this season has only 4. And there are two cases, taking over two episodes each. Alice is out of the picture, so we need a new red thread. This comes in the form of Jenny Jones, a prostitute working in the adult film industry. Her mother thinks it’s involuntary and Luther comes to the rescue. I’d rather see more of Alice, but this is also an interesting change.
“Luther” is a show that grabs you, thanks to again the fantastic performance by Idris Elba in the titular role. His very honest and realistic emotions are something many of us can relate to. How it doesn’t let him go. And we can somehow also understand the blind trust that Schenk and Ripley have in him.
Again, a really great season.

TV Show Review - Luther (Season 1)

Season: 1
Genre: Thriller/ Crime/ Drama
Number of episodes: 6
Year: 2010
Starring: Idris Elba, Ruth Wilson, Dermot Crowley, Warren Brown, Michael Smiley, Paul McGann, Indira Varma, Steven Mackintosh, Saskia Reeves

Description: DCI John Luther (Idris Elba) is a near-genius murder detective whose brilliant mind can't always save him from the dangerous violence of his passions.

Review: When I started this show, I thought there were enough British detectives. But when you’ve got Idris Elba as your lead, it’s a little different. Elba turns a very standard role into something special.
At the start of season 1, we see Luther chasing a man, who seemingly has abducted and killed girls. We see how Luther can rescue him from falling down, but he purposely doesn’t. because of the investigation of this happening, Luther can’t work until the investigation is finalized. He is asked back. Soon we learn he is in a difficult relationship with his wife Zoe and that, on the first case back, he starts getting a strange connection with the supposed suspect. The question we all ask is, why would you let him work as a detective, when you know all this? Well, because he is the best on the job.
The red thread in this first season, is the connection between Luther and Alice, the woman we meet in the first episode. Her parents were brutally murdered and Luther knows she did it. But there is no evidence and Alice walks away. but because Alice is Luther’s equal when it comes to intelligence, the two form an unlikely bond.
I’m glad the show doesn’t fully focus on that. This is the only part that you can only understand if you see all episode. The rest can also be watch separately. Each episode focuses on a new case.
I’m definitely going to continue this show. Not only because I simply love detective stories. Idris Elba is magnificent and created an interesting character I want to explore more.

10s Movie Review - The Mountain Between Us

Director: Hany Abu-Assad
Genre: Drama/ Adventure/ Thriller/ Romance
Runtime: 103 minutes
Year: 2017
Starring: Idris Elba, Kate Winslet, Beau Bridges, Dermot Mulroney, Linda Sorensen

Description: Stranded after a tragic plane crash, two strangers (Kate Winslet, Idris Elba) must forge a connection to survive the extreme elements of a remote snow-covered mountain. When they realize help is not coming, they embark on a perilous journey across the wilderness.

Review: Neurosurgeon Ben is on his way to perform a very complex surgery on a young patient. Photographer Alex is about to get married. Both are stranded on an airport, when their flights are cancelled due to the weather.
Alex manages to rent a private plane and overhears Ben, who is in a similar situation having to be at his location the next day. They board the plane together, but their pilot suffers from a stroke and they crash. They end up in a snowy landscape, with no people or towns nearby. Ben and Alex don’t know each other, but are forced to survive together.
The pilot didn’t survive, but his dog did, so Alex and Ben have a companion. With minimal supplies and a couple of chocolade bars they two have to decide if they wait for help or look for help by foot.
Director Hany Aby-Asad used the book “The Mountain Between Us” by Charles Martin, as its inspiration. It’s an ambitious project, while the screentime is filled with only two characters and a dog. And he got lucky with Kate Winslet and Idris Elba as his stars. “The Mountain Between Us” is beautifully shot. And the first half of the film I really liked. Ben is the stronger of the two, so he has to make sure Alex makes it through. But as soon as the two are on an equal playing feel, so to say, you realize hos old fashioned this story actually is. Alex becomes this ‘damsel in distress’, when she is in fact a very strong woman on her own. And Ben is ‘the knight in shining armor’, who will make sure that he will get her of that mountain.
And what bothered me the most: this is supposed to be a survival movie, right?. I really loved this part. Why does there have to be a love story? From being a good and solid survival tale, it turns into a mediocre romantic drama. With a very cheesy ending I might say.
I was so disappointed in this film. Not because of Elba and Winslet, they are great. But the direction the story takes is just so lame.

Rating: 2/ 5

10s Movie Review - Molly's Game

Director: Aaron Sorkin
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 141 minutes
Year: 2017
Starring: Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, Chris O’Dowd, Bill Camp, Graham Greene, Justin Kirk

Description: The true story of Molly Bloom (Jessica Chastain), an Olympic-class skier who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game and became an FBI target.

Review: Molly Bloom is a strong woman, but not the school girl role model. As an Olympic skier, she gets into a terrible accident where the doctors tell her she will never ski again. But within a year Molly is back on the slope.
But her Olympic career isn’t for long, when Molly has yet another fall to recover from. She starts working for a shady guy in an equally shady office. Her boss is friends with some big shots and runs secret poker games. Molly starts out as his help and eventually climbs the ladder to become the so-called ‘poker princess’.
Molly Bloom’s biography is pretty outspoken and was released not long after Molly was charged for running illegal games. Aaron Sorkin saw something in it and decided to turn it into film.
Everything we see, really happened, Bloom only changed most names. Sorkin isn’t interested in the names, he’s not here to get out the dirt. He wants to show us Molly Bloom’s story, how she starts out and eventually how she runs exclusive high-stake poker games.
Jessica Chastain is probably my favorite actress of the moment. She plays Bloom fiercely, relentless and sharp. Bloom is smart, she plays it smart and she uses her feminine qualities in a very clever way. And it all works.
Bloom isn’t portrayed as some kind of superhero. Aside from the criminal activities, she is also a woman that can be broken as long as you keep looking for her weaknesses. But she comes back from it even stronger and the fact that people never really get close to Bloom, is just a side effect she accepts.
Chastain is amazing in her role, she makes this movie great. And Sorkin manages to create a biopic, where a feisty woman makes it in a man’s world. Strong film!

Rating: 4 / 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 2017 - # 41: Star Trek Beyond

Director: Justin Lin
Genre: Science Fiction/ Action/ Adventure
Runtime: 122 minutes
Year: 2016
Starring: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Karl Urban, Simon Pegg, Anton Yelchin, Idris Elba, Sofia Boutella, Deep Roy, John Cho

Description: The USS Enterprise crew explores the furthest reaches of uncharted space, where they encounter a new ruthless enemy who puts them and everything the Federation stands for to the test.

Review: It took director Justin Lin a while to turn the “Fast & Furious” series into the success it is now. For the “Star Trek” series it was a little easier, because Lin taking over for “Star Trek Beyond” is an instant success. It’s a great follow up and doesn’t constantly reference the old films and the TV show.
“Star Trek” from 2009 and “Star Trek Into Darkness” from 2013 were trying to build the new Star Trek universe and to reintroduce the characters. Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Sulu, Uhura, Scotty and Chekov finally get to go on their first long space mission in “Star Trek Beyond”, to discover new worlds, civilizations and people.
During a stop, they get a call from the nebula, an unknown part of space where there is no communication possible with the Starfleet. It is a bit suspicious, but the heroes from the Enterprise can’t ignore the call and decide to help them. But they are ambushed and end up on an unknown planet.
The villain is played by Idris Elba, who is unrecognizable but still manages to show his charisma through layers of make-up. Another newcomer is Sofia Boutella as Jaylah.
The film has a high tempo, which makes it feel rushed at times. But the action scenes are great, never over the top. I was sceptic about this film, “Star Trek Beyond” is a really good movie. I didn’t expect that. This “Star Trek” series is very solid.

Rating: 4,5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 141: Beasts of No Nation

Director: Cary Fukunaga
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 133 minutes
Year: 2015
Starring: Idris Elba, Abraham Attuh, Ama K. Abebrese, Opeyemi Fagbohunge, Richard Pepple

Description: A drama based on the experiences of Agu (Abraham Attuh), a child soldier fighting in the civil war of an unnamed African country.

Review: “Beast of No Nation” is the first original drama film for Netflix. And it’s a big gamble. It isn’t just a serious arthouse film, but also an expensive production with risky shots. And the cast is relatively unknown. But the talented director Cary Fukunaga, known for the first season of “True Detective” and the movie “Jane Eyre”, is someone you can trust with a project like this.
“Beasts of No Nation” opens in an unknown African country. There is a civil war going on, rebels are fighting the government. The country has safe zones, like the village of leading character Agu. He hardly notices anything of the war going on. But that safe feeling ends. The rebels are getting closer and there is decided to evacuate women and children. In all the chaos, Agu is left behind with his father and brother. The government troops mistake Agu and his family for rebels and his father and brother are killed. Agu manages to escape, but ends up in the hands of the rebels. There Agu is trained to be a soldier.
The main theme is the dehumanization of child soldiers. It appears that there are still almost a half million child soldiers on our planet, which makes this film topical. The film is focusing on one boy going through the process of becoming a child soldier.
Agu is played by Abraham Attah. He manages to touch us and projects his emotions very well. But Idris Elba, who plays Commandant, is phenomenal. He is scary in his presence, but he is also a man you will understand and respect. Elba created a fascinating character.
Netflix made a great choice to make “Beasts of No Nation”. The film shows the horrors of war and the sad truth about child soldiers. The result is impressive.

Rating: 5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 109: 28 Weeks Later

Director: Juan Carlos Fresnadillo
Genre: Drama/ Horror/ Thriller
Runtime: 95 minutes
Year: 2007
Starring: Robert Carlyle, Catherine McCormack, Rose Byrne, Jeremy Renner, Imogen Poots, Idris Elba, Harold Perrineau

Description: Six months after the rage virus was inflicted on the population of Great Britain, the US Army helps to secure a small area of London for the survivors to repopulate and start again. But not everything goes to plan.

Review: When it comes to horror sequels, they seldom succeed. Most of the time it’s nothing new and just a a repetition of the previous film, but then worse. “28 Weeks Later” is the sequel to the fantastic film “28 Days Later” and it’s one of the few good horror sequels.
In “28 Days Later” the British population is completely extinct by a mysterious zombie virus and the American army has taken over control. 28 Weeks after these happenings they want Brittain to repopulate.
The original was very scary, those zombies are terrifying especially because they are so fast. “28 Weeks Later” also has that, but adds a bit more gore to it all. It’s visible that Danny Boyle didn’t direct this film, the camera work is a bit more chaotic and much quicker. But it’s a good way to add effects to the film.
“28 Days Later” is still the better movie, but I think “28 Weeks Later” is a strong horror sequel with a good cast.

Rating: 3,5/ 5