The Lion King

It never ceases to amaze me how film animation has advanced.  Producer/Director Jon Favreau’s The Lion King is the current example of how realistic it has become.

But that’s not the best aspect of this wonderful film.  It’s theme of “the circle of life” as one moves from "no worries" childhood to purposed adulthood is an excellent lesson for both young and old.  

If you have children, this is a must-see.  If you are a child at heart, this is a must-see.  If you think you are too sophisticated for this type of fare, this is a must-see.

If you really can’t get the message, at least you’ll be delighted by the antics of Pumbaa (voice of Seth Rogen) and Timon (voice of Billy Eichon).

I give The Lion King a 4.7 out of 5.

Stuber

Director Michael Dowse’s Stuber would have been better titled Stupid.

Here’s one film where the Director of the Movie Trailer should have been the film’s Director.  At least that was entertaining.

As it is, Stuber ‘s appeal is to 12 or 13-year-old boys that like to see things crash or get wrecked.

The ridiculous premise is that a giant cop (Dave Bautista), who has just had Lasik surgery, is trying to catch a killer (Rene Moran) and purloins a small Uber driver (Kumail Nanjiani) to drive him around and be his eyes. 

Thanks to Nanjiani there are some funny lines and situations, but they are dwarfed by the sheer idiocy of the story.

I give Stuber a 1.9 out of 5.

Spider-Man: Far From Home

Thanks to a great script by Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, Director Jon Watts’ Spider-Man: Far From Home is a thoroughly enjoyable film.

The visual effects and battles of the usual Avenger vehicles are overcome by laughs as the film focuses on the foibles of the young Spider-man Peter Parker (Tom Holland), who is attracted to classmate MJ (Zendaya), and just wants to share a summer trip to Europe with her and fellow classmates instead of having to save the world.

Odd-couple love connections with his best friend Ned (Jacob Batalon) and MJ’s best friend Betty (Angourie Rice) and Parker’s Aunt May’s budding romance with his protector Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau) add to the fun and humor.

It’s almost secondary that Spider-man does have to save the world.  And, the poor casting choice of the would-be actor playing the villain moves from irritating to laughable, as well. 

I give Spider-Man: Far From Home a 4.2 out of 5.