Tag: IT

Reviews

‘Stephen Kings – IT’ Movie Review 

Wannabe Movie Critic

The perfect blend of 80’s nostalgia, a classic horror tale and honestly just an overall really fun and scary movie going experience.

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(WARNER BROS.)
Seriously, what is is with clowns anyways? They’re fun, they’re creepy, and they have honestly made me lose more hours of sleep then I care to remember. I’m now a grown man, and I find it hard to believe that Stephen Kings newest adaptation would cause me such pain. Well guess again Nate, because Andy Muschietti’s IT really scared the crap out of me. It’s been a long time since I was this excited walking into a movie theatre, this has been years in the making. Being in production hell, going from one director to another, and casting and recasting the famous Pennywise The Dancing Clown, I wondered if they would ever get around to making this happen. Finally things started coming together when director Andy Muschietti got on board with the project, and even helmed part of the script himself. Having grown up with the 90’s TV mini-series, I fell in love with Pennywise, and was also terrified of him. I can remember watching it when I was very young, probably younger than one should be when watching IT, but props to my grandfather who decided to hell with it, and now here we are 27 years later, and Pennywise still gives me goosebumps. The story is pretty simple, 7 loser battle a clown that brings out their deepest darkest fears in the town of Derry Maine. Boy I would not want to take a vacation to that place. 

So like I just mentioned its been 27 years since Tim Curry made parents wash more bed sheets then they could ever dream about. Did you know that in the novel, Pennywise actually comes back every 27 years, I found that very neat. I’m not going to spoil anything in the movie, but this is drastically different from the TV mini-series, and I’ll say this movie is more faithful to the source material, and that made me happy and sad. I was expecting certain things to happen that didn’t and they take certain things in other directions, which in the end I was fine with, because I know they just didn’t want to rehash everything that went on in the mini-series. For instance, I’m going to start with the main attraction, Mr. Pennywise himself. I recall when the first images of Pennywise were released, everyone and their mother threw a massive hissy fit about the way he looked. Well lets just toss this out the window, because take a bow Bill Skarsgard, because you had pretty big shoes to fill, more like clown shoes (I AM RIGHT!) Sorry I couldn’t go this entire review and not toss that pun in there. I don’t want to sit here and compare the two Pennywise’s, that’s not fair to either actor, they are both completely different interpretations of a character. I will say I enjoyed this Pennywise more, he was certainly way more creepy, and people forget that Pennywise is a shape-shifting entity from another dimension, he is more than just a clown. Tim Curry’s portrayal felt more clown like, where Skarsgard’s felt like he was portraying a super natural being. He brings it though, the first 5 minutes of IT, you are sitting on the edge of your seat. You can tell he really put everything into this role, and the kids seemed genuinely afraid of him, almost like they weren’t acting in certain moments, there was real fear inside of them. He was creepy to boot, funny at times, and part of me was kind of rooting for him in moments. He really sucks you into the movie, the very moment you lay your eyes on him. I had one very small gripe with Pennywise, and that was simply just not enough of him. Just the way he was able to put his whole body into his performance, from contorting his body, to using different voices. He was so animated that it made Pennywise so much creepier, and seemed so much more unhinged, that I I wanted to see more, because every time he was on screen, you didn’t know what he was going to do or say. A little more interaction with the kids would have been nice as well, but those are small nitpicks in an overall fantastic movie. There is about a 7 minute stretch, that involves Pennywise, that is some of the most disturbing and scariest stuff I have ever seen in a movie. It sums up his role, and is the purest form of what I want in my dancing clown.

Now for the Losers Club. Bravo to the casting director of IT, because they casted the Losers so damn well. I couldn’t believe the chemistry and the camaraderie between all the kids. They felt like just a bunch of friends, who happened to be in the same movie together. I’m not going to go over seven different performances, but they all deserve credit. For me the stand outs were Finn Wolfhard who plays Richie Tozier. Who serves as the comedic relief for the movie. He has so many incredible one liners, that involve dick jokes, mom jokes and just easing the tension, and I found myself laughing a lot throughout the entire movie. IT is actually a really funny movie, there are a ton of laughs to be had, which makes sense, because it’s about a group of kids. Remember when you were a kid, you knew all the swear words, but you would only say them around your friends. These kids have really foul mouths, and I loved every second of it. Besides being really funny, the movie has so much heart. There are just some real endearing moments, about kids really becoming young adults, and overcoming what scares them most. All around IT just has such a nice blend of different genres and themes, that it makes you appreciate what the director was able to pull off. Sophia Lillis plays Beverly Marsh, and I thought she did such a wonderful job in this role. Her character goes through the most development in the movie I’d say, and she really seemed mature for her age. She has some really tense, emotional scenes, and she showed her acting chops in those scenes. But my man, my guy, Jack Dylan Grazer who plays Eddie Kaspbrak, the geek/germaphobe. I think this kid as a hell of an acting future, there’s just something about him, maybe he reminds me of a younger version of myself. I just found him having almost the most to do in this movie, and he seemed like he was acting the hardest, and I really respect that about the kid. All the kids did such an incredible job, they are all rockstars, and all have bright futures. Everyone and their dog is about to see IT, and these kids are about to become house hold names. Shout out to Port Hope, Ontario, that’s where IT was shot. The cinematography is simply stunning. There are some gorgeous sets, and shots of the town were spectacular. There is just some amazing imagery throughout, with Pennywise, the kids, and just some little subtle things that people may or may not pick up on.

This story just has a really special place in my heart, and it’s movies like IT that make me have such a strong appreaction for the film industry. This is more than just a horror movie, it’s just a really good, well made movie. It’s also more than just a horror story, it’s got a comedy aspect, a thriller aspect and what I like most, the coming of age story. This is at its core a story about kids coming together, and facing their deepest fears. It’s about friendship, about being part of something special, and coming together for a common goal. Each loser overcomes what scares them most, while at the same time dealing with everyday problems, that 13 year olds are faced it on a day to day basis. It just so happens they are dealing with not only bullies from school, but a psycho killer clown, that wants to rip them to shreds. This just reminds me of other movies I hold dear to my heart, Stand By Me, The Goonies, ET, Sandlot and of course Stranger Things. Whenever kids are involved and a great story is being told, I don’t know, something about that just warms my heart. I loved my childhood so much, and it’s nice to just feel like a kid again, get scared in the theatre, not have to worry about the responsibilities of being an adult. Just to be around your friends a go on an adventure, maybe it’s because that’s something I need right now, but these are why these are my favourite types of movies. IT just made me feel like a kid again, while I was sitting in the theatre, scared like I was when I was 6 years old, clinching my seat and trying to not whimper like a baby. I never really look at my watch or phone during movies, but I did during IT, because I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to spend more time with the Losers Club. When the title screen is finally revealed at the end, and it says “Chapter 1”, I smiled, knowing that we will get to see Pennywise again. One thing I will say about chapter 2. I hope they are careful with their casting. They did a perfect job casting the young losers, and I think casting A-List actors, could take away from the movie. Some how make it seem less believable, but I can’t wait to see who they cast. This was just a really special movie going experience for me, and the most fun I’ve had in the theatre in a long time. It’s not the best movie of 2017, but right now I think it’s my favourite. Get over your fear of clowns and go out and see this movie. See you in your dreams!

Check ya later,

Nate’s Movie Tour Reviews – IT = 97/100 – Saw it a second time, even better than I thought, original score was 93.

 

 

 

 

News

Overall Thoughts About ‘IT’ & Casting The Adult Losers Club!

Wannabe Movie Critic

Kingston was founded as a beaver-trapping town……Still is right boys!

(WARNER BROS.)
Spider-Man, Wonder Woman, and even Dom Toretto himself were no match for Pennywise and the Losers Club. Can you believe that, IT, a movie without any mega A-List actors, a horror movie and most importantly a rated R movie. Walked away from the weekend with an opening of 123 million dollars. Making it third, only behind Beauty & The Beast and Guardians of The Galaxy: Vol 2. IT set records for the largest September opening and the best opening for a horror movie ever. Honestly I can’t believe it, I thought the movie would open to a modest 80 million dollars, which again is humongous for an R rated film, considering Logan, which came out back in March, only opened with 88 million dollars. That’s Wolverine we are talking about, and that couldn’t even crack a 100 million dollar opening weekend. I know what you’re thinking “who cares,” well one, I do, and secondly this is a massive success just not for the horror genre, but for movies in general. The 2017 summer box-office was one of the worst in a long time. With flop after flop, sequel or reboot after another. Or just movies that didn’t seem to have any steam leading up to their releases. I didn’t go to a single movie in the month of August. I can’t recall the last time I went an entire calender month without going to the movies. For instance, another Stephen King adaption came out earlier this summer, The Dark Tower, which starred Matthew McConaughey and Idris Elba, two of Hollywoods biggest stars, and it BOMBED. It bombed so bad, it took IT one day to make more money at the box-office than The Dark Tower did in its entire theatrical run. The only person people knew in IT, was “that kid from Stranger Things.” Not only did it have an incredible opening weekend, it’s sitting pretty at 86% on Rotten Tomatoes. There’s a reason why I brought up The Dark Tower, and it’s something that’s happening a lot in the film industry right now. Zero to little passion being put into these movies. They thought let’s get McConaughey and Elba together in a movie, it will make a killing! The studio was never behind the project and didn’t let the director behind it make the movie they wanted to make. That will never lead to success. Warner Brothers let Patty Jenkins take Wonder Woman by her gauntlets and make the movie she had invisioned and it showed, because it’s the most successful movie of 2017 thus far. They let Andy Muschietti make the version of IT he believed could do the fans justice. They didn’t interfere and again it shows. Studios need to start letting directors with creative visions make the movies they want to make and not muddle in the process. Incredible things can happen when they do, and IT just showed that.

That was just a little rant, but now I’m going to go over the movie, and will spoil a few things, so if you haven’t seen IT yet, I suggest you float away now, I’d hate to burst your balloon.

The more I think about IT, the more I am becoming aware of just much I loved this movie. I think I had such high expectations of what I wanted it to be, and what I wanted from my movie going experience, that when it was all said and done, it was really hard for me to digest what I had just witnessed. It wasn’t what I was expecting, it wasn’t even that scary, more creepy and disturbing. But its almost been a week now, and I have come to realize just how special this movie really was, and I can’t wait to watch it again this week. Just some things that I noticed throughout the movie, that maybe some people may have missed, or some just really awesome imagery. For instances the very beginning of the movie, Bill draws a smiley face on his bedroom window when it was raining, and right as Georgie walks out of the room, the rain washes away the face. Just the entire opening sequence is special, how Pennywise is almost sweet and innocent during his interaction with Georgie, and how he is trying to hold down a conversation with him, but he doesn’t really know how to. He isn’t human, so when the water and his drool are pouring down his face, human instinct would be to wipe that away but yet he doesn’t. And the quick shot of his arm reaching out to grab Georgie is actually one of the scariest moments of the movie, because you know his arm is extending in order to grab him, but they don’t show that. It’s just after this scene we get to see the real Pennywise, and he isn’t ever like that again, he’s demonic, scary as hell, and enjoys toying with the losers.

The house scene with Eddie, Richie and Bill was why favourite part of the whole movie. It simply encapsulated everything I wanted this movie to be. Tons of Pennywise, scares and most importantly the losers banding together to take him down. It has most of the kids dealing with their fears, which at its core, is what the movie is about, and my favourite moment of the entire movie, is when Pennywise crawls out of the fridge. Its honestly just so disturbing, and Jack Dylan Grazer does such an incredible job in this scene. This was the first time he had ever seen Bill Skarsgard in character, and it showed on his face. People are somewhat complaining about to much CGI with Pennywise, because in the 90s that wasn’t the case. But in the 90s version the little CGI they did use looked so bad, and laughable they couldn’t do stuff like that. And he’s a shape-shifter so they could do some weird stuff like that with him. But I think my favourite Pennywise moment was when Mike first sees him in the meat shop. Just hanging himself with the chains laughing like a fool. That’s why I think Skarsgard’s performance was just brilliant, he seemed to be enjoying himself to the fullest playing this role, and I don’t know this moment just really stuck with me. This will probably change after multiple viewings, but when I left the theatre this was something that was stuck in my head.

Casting The Losers 

I have seen this already going around, so I wanted to share my thoughts on who I think should play the adult versions of the Losers Club. Now it’s difficult because they are 12 in the movie, and it comes back every 27 years, so technically we need actors near 40, but some of mine are a little bit younger. This is just hypothetical and I bet not a single one of these people will be casted in the movie, but I think they would do a really good job in their roles! Minor spoilers for Chapter 2. Nothing big, just what they go on to do for their jobs when they get older.

Bill Denbrough  – Adam Driver 


Fresh off his Star Wars success, Adam is a not quite a house hold name yet, but I think he could do adult Bill justice. Bill becomes a very respected and renowed writer. He writes horror stories to be exact, and when the losers get back together to battle Pennywise once more, once again Bill takes charge in the leading the group. I think Adam Driver could take the reins on being that leader, and I just think he’s a fantastic actor.

Ben Hanscom – Armie Hammer  


I know what you’re thinking. The little fat kid, grows up to be Armie Hammer, yeah right. But Ben, who is actually referred to as “Haystack” in the book, well puberty hits him like a freight train, and he grows up to be a tall, slender, successful architect. Like one of the best in the world, he’s award winning, and sophisticated, and I think Armie could pull this off beautifully. He’s also just one of my favourite actors, and I would love to see a man his size be scared of Pennywise, and even better, if they made it seem like Pennywise still towered over him, that would make him seem even more terrifying! The one big chance that will happen with chapter 2, the novel takes place in the 50’s then in the 80s. The movie takes place in the late 80s, so that means chapter 2 will be taking place in almost modern time, so things will certainly change from within the book.

Beverly Marsh – Amber Heard 


Everyone in the world wants either Jessica Chastain or Amy Adams for this role, but I don’t. Love them both and I actually do believe one of them will be casted in the role, but I’m going with Amber Heard. Beverly grows up to be a beautiful fashion designer and well that role screams Amber Heard to me, I know she’s a little on the younger age, but she’s involved with the WB studio, playing Mera in the upcoming Aquaman, so she’s already used to having red hair.

Eddie Kaspbrak – Johnny Galecki 


Yes Leonard from The Big Bang Theory. When I see Eddie, I see Leonard. I think he could really get into Eddie’s character, and he’s already used to playing a nerd and outsider, so this could be easy for him. Eddie grows up to own a really successful limousine service, but seeing how this will take place in almost modern day, well I don’t think that will be the case. He will probably own some sort of driving app, or something along those lines.

Stan Uris – Neil Patrick Harris


That’s right, suit up! NPH baby, he’s got a background of playing a dramatic role in Gone Girl, and I think he could crush this role. Stan grows up to be a very successful accountant, and already, if you’re not thinking that’s not NPH, then shame on you. Also he’s awesome, and I would love to see him in more things.

Mike Hanlon – Anthony Mackie 


I didn’t realize that he was older than he was. Anthony is almost pushing 40, so it’s perfect! He’s also a fantastic actor, who could really show his acting chops in this role. We are used to seeing him as Falcon in the MCU, but he’s done a ton of stuff. Mike has such a larger role in chapter 2 as well, serving as the librarian in Derry. He serves almost as the leader of the group early on in chapter 2, as he is the one contacting all the other Losers, when he realizes that IT is back. Would love to see Anthony in this role.

Richie Tozier – Bill Hader 


I’m stealing this one from Finn Wolfhard himself. The cast was asked this question and Bill was his answer, and well I think it’s perfect. I know that Bill Hader is only known for his comedy, well Richie was the comedic relief in the first part, and Richie goes on to be a world class comedian, so yeah this makes perfect sense. Bill Hader is also phenomenal at using his face, and I think he could come up with some really wacky, funny stuff when it comes to him seeing Pennywise again. Really hope this one happens, I would love to see Bill Hader take on a role in a horror movie.

Check ya later.

News, Reviews

‘IT’ Drops Two Creepy TV Spots

Wannabe Movie Critic

For a split second Pennywise sounds like Scooby-Doo, and some how that makes him even creepier.

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(WARNER BROS.)

Just take all of my money, seriously Warner Bros. just take it all. In all honesty I can’t remember a better marketing campaign for a movie, then what Warner Brothers is doing for IT. Not in a long time that is, everything they are doing is damn near perfect, from the posters, trailers and now two incredible TV spots. Every time something new drops for this movie, I find myself watching it over and over again, and it is now my most anticipated movie of 2017. That’s right, me a nerd, I want to see this movie over Star Wars and Justice League, I really didn’t think that could be possible, especially when it comes to Justice League, but I think IT is shaping up to be a truly special movie.

I can’t remember the last time I went to the theatres to watch a horror movie. They don’t really do it for me, but recently horror movies have been drifting away from the extreme gore, like the SAW franchise and kind of come back to its roots, by making genuinely scary movies. I just get excited whenever new footage or a new photo gets released and that’s really rare for me, that is only the case for certain movies, and I’m thinking that this is shaping up to be an all-timer for me, like one of my favourite movies ever. That’s a pretty bold statement to make, but I just have that feeling, that I’m going to love the crap out of this thing. This movie kind of holds a special place in my heart, and the 90’s TV mini-series almost ruined my childhood. But The Goonies, Stand By Me, Lost Boys, even Stranger Things, these are the types of things I love. It almost takes you back to your childhood and makes you almost want to go on an adventure with your friends, even if that adventure entails you going up against a crazy child eating demon clown, but none the less, these movies always remain to be about friendship. IT seems to be all these movies and TV shows rolled into one, and it’s actually going to terrify people, I know that much. There’s just something about Pennywise sitting with a children’s choir singing “kill them all” with the biggest smile on his face, that makes me terrified and actually makes me laugh. That’s how you know they really got Pennywise right. I could maybe do with just a little more footage, but nothing to drastic, they have me and I’m pretty sure everyone once sold on it. September 8th can’t come soon enough.

Check ya later.

Reviews

‘IT’ Trailer – Bring Your Diapers 

Wannabe Movie Critic

It’s official, rent a clowns are going out of business. 

(WARNER BROS.)

The words “here, take it”  have never sounded so scary in the history of mankind. Bravo Warner Bros. because you hit a home run with IT. Seriously with each new trailer, this movie just keeps getting more and more impressive. 

FINALLY heard Pennywise talk, and it’s just so good. I’m so happy they are taking him in a completely different direction. He looks so good and now that I’ve heard his voice I’m totally on board. Remember 6 months ago when his first image was released and people thought, that he wasn’t scary and this was going to be garbage. Well jokes on you people because this has all the makings to be one of the scariest movies of all time. I’m not even kidding when I say that, this thing is rated R, and the trailers haven’t shown really any Pennywise yet. When he’s standing behind Beverly Marsh in her room, I can’t help but laugh, because it’s simply covering up the fact that I was scared shitless. All the kids in this look fantastic, my god, props to the casting director because this wasn’t going to work if all the child leads were terrible. 

Once again the trailers for IT exceed my expectations and I can’t wait to see the final product. This is shaping up to be the most anticipated non comic book, non Star Wars movie of 2017. This will be one of the scariest movie ever created, everyone hates clowns, and if you don’t. You’re lying to yourself. 

Check ya later. 

News

New ‘IT’ Trailer Is Amazing. 

Wannabe Movie Critic

Everything we see makes me realize just how special this movie is going to be.

So a new IT trailer just dropped and it’s just incredible. Everything so far in terms of marketing as been pure perfection. As a fan of the television mini-series from the 90’s, when I heard they were making this into a full length movie, I was super excited.

This time around, we finally get our first great look at Pennywise The Dancing Clown. He looks incredible in my opinion, I know it’s vastly different from Tim Curry’s look but I’m glad they went with sometime extremely different. I guess this is closer to how he is described in the book, so that should make the lovers of the book happy.

I think the casting for the Losers Club is great. The banter we get in the sewers was top notch. With Eddie and Richie really stealing the show. Still not a single word has been spoken by Pennywise, which I think is the smart way to go. Keep us in the dark about the way he will speak, and maybe have him say some dialogue in the final trailer. I can’t wait to see what they role out next!

Check ya later.

News

Let’s Talk About the ‘IT’ Trailer 

Wannabe Movie Critic

The Losers Club and Pennywise are back and it looks terrifying as hell

(Warner Bros.)

Boy does this trailer bring me back, to being scared shitless of clowns. The 90’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel IT is getting a makeover this year and the first official trailer has just dropped. Even the poster that was released yesterday is simply incredible, the way they hide Pennywise behind the balloon is really smart, and super creepy.

One thing is for certain this isn’t the 90s TV adaptation that’s for sure. This looks horrific, and I get a sense this time around Pennywise might not be cracking to many jokes. Tim Curry managed to blend comedy with horror perfectly when he suited up as the dancing clown back in the day and now Bill Skarsgard is on deck and from the little we got to see in the trailer, I think he’s going to make Tim proud.

This was a fantastic trailer, and what a movie trailer should be. They didn’t give away too much, teased us with Pennywise, he didn’t even have any lines of dialogue which I was kind of pissed about but understand why it was done. He looks so scary and the last 10 seconds of this trailer are straight up what nightmares are made of. They obviously had to change the look of Pennywise for this and the first pictures that were released were met with mixed reviews, well now seeing this in the flesh and in action I couldn’t be happier with it. All the kids in The Losers Club seem scared out of their minds, and the tagline “what are you afraid of?” is awesome, because Pennywise is known to bring out your worst fears and make them into a reality.

IT made my most anticipated list, and after watching this trailer a boatload of times I’m even more excited for the final product. Having a September release date makes me a little worried because that is usually a garbage month for movies after the long summer blockbuster season, but I will remain hopeful until its release. Looking forward to seeing some kids get straight up murdered, sorry not sorry for saying that, it will be bloody and grotesque and I can’t wait.

Check ya later.

Reviews

Most Anticipated Movies of 2017

Wannabe Movie Critic

Goodbye 2016, hello 2017! At last, the year from hell is over! 2016 in many people’s eyes will go down to be an all-timer, in the worst way possible. For popular culture junkies like myself, I will never forget it. We saw so many influential people leave us, and movies disappoint us (I’m looking at you Batman V. Superman) that when the clock struck 12 on December 31st, we all rejoiced that it was officially the start of a new year. That being said it wasn’t all-bad in 2016; if you’re reading this, you probably love movies as much as I do. Movies are a great way to escape for a few short hours and be reminded just how extraordinary something can truly be. While there were many disappointments in 2016, I’d just like to thank certain films such as; La La Land, Moonlight, Arrival, and Nocturnal Animals for restoring my faith in Hollywood, after what was a lackluster summer, to say the least. That’s all behind us now, and I’d like to share the ten films I’m most anticipated to see in the year 2017!

10 Stephen Kings IT director/ Andres Muschietti

Beep beep Richie! Are words that haunted me as a young child. The 1990 made for TV movie adaptation of Stephen King’s famous novel brought the terrifying Pennywise the clown to life. Personally, I think the original still stands up today, and I’ve come to appreciate it more as I’ve grown older. Andres Muschietti is coming off a stellar directorial debut with Mama and hopes Bill Skarsgard who’s playing the infamous clown will bring the same magic as Tim Curry did in the 1990 version. I’m not usually one for horror movies, as I believe they have shifted in a weird direction, but there’s just something about this movie that feels right. Boasting a great young cast especially Finn Wolfhard (Mike from Stranger Things) and Jaeden Lieberher (Midnight Special) makes this seem even more promising. I’ll admit that I was a little turned off from the photos of Pennywise so far, but I can’t let a few pictures determined how excited I am to finally see this movie on the big screen. My goal for this movie is for it to be successful enough that we get the adult sequel and that I don’t regret putting it on my list.

9 Power Rangers director/Dean Israelite

Nostalgia, Nostalgia, Nostalgia. Don’t judge me on this one; the original had a lot of my firsts. First toy I can remember, and certainly my first crush (thank you, Kimberly). When I first heard they were remaking the Power Rangers into a feature film I didn’t think much of it. The 90’s TV show can be summarized as a poppy, cheesy afterschool kids show. So it was hard to fathom how they were going to translate that onto the big screen. Lionsgate has really flipped Power Rangers a complete 180 degrees, with it looking very dark and gritty from everything we have seen thus far. For some, this is the biggest criticism of the movie, but I think it’s the perfect direction to take this franchise. The trailer gives off a very breakfast club meets Chronicle vibe and I’ve been intrigued ever since. The folks behind the new movie have been rolling out promotional images of the movie here and there and the new look Alpha 5, Zords, and even the rangers who are looking a little too Iron Man-ish have me thinking that they are taking Power Rangers in a whole new direction. The biggest surprise for me would have to be the casting of Bryan Cranston as the giant floating head Zordon. Why on Earth would he choose to be in this movie? Does it make me believe there’s a chance this movie could be good, well maybe but sometimes actors just need a payday? The thing I’m most excited about is without question is Elizabeth Banks playing the villain Rita Repulsa. At least from the trailer and all the images we have seen it looks like she’s all in on this role and I couldn’t be happier about it. This has all the makings of being a horrible crapfest, but that’s not the point of the list. I’m excited to see what this movie could be, and I’m even more excited to see just how bad this movie could truly be. IT’S MORPHIN TIME!!

8 War for the Planet of the Apes director/Matt Reeves

“The irony is we created you. And nature has been punishing us ever since”.

First, it was just apes, then apes on horses and now you’re telling me apes on tanks?????! The apes are back baby, and this time it means war! This movie is going to be bittersweet for a lot of us, seeing how it will certainly be the last time we get to watch the great Andy Serkis do his thing as Caesar. This franchise has done so much for motion capture performances; it’s taken them to a whole other level. The first Apes was a great movie, the second was extraordinary and this could be the cherry on top of the trilogy sundae. This has all the makings to be a great trilogy, maybe even one of the best ever. Matt Reeves is back in the directors’ chair for the second time for this franchise and this time around he’s bringing Woody Harrelson. Who looks menacing as hell as the villain along for the ride. I loved what I saw in the first trailer and visually these movies just keep getting better and better. The apes look breathtaking and I just can’t say enough about what Andy Serkis has accomplished for the motion capture industry. These movies have done wonders for the lure of the planet of the apes, and with some rumors that this final installment might have some ties into the original movie, it intrigues me even more. I’m going to miss Caesar and I hope this movie will be the sendoff he deserves. Side note: I really hope they bring back Koba, that guy was awesome!

7 Kingsman: The Golden Circle director/Matthew Vaughn

I remember back in 2014 walking into Kingsman and not thinking too much about it. I heard it was a fun time at the movies and was based on a graphic novel, so I said to hell with it and gave it a shot. As soon as the opening credits hit and Money for Nothing, Chicks for Free by Dire Straights came on, I knew then in my heart I was going to love this movie. Kingsman was fun, full of incredible action (YouTube the church scene and you can thank me later) and it didn’t take itself too seriously. I love being surprised by movies when they go beyond your expectations; it’s just a really great feeling to have when walking out of the theatre. Now 3 years later, here comes Kingsman: The Golden Circle, and I couldn’t leave it off my list. Matthew Vaughn is returning and he’s on a little bit of a role with, Kick-Ass, X-Men First Class, and Kingsman respectfully. The entire cast is back but you’re telling me Julianne Moore, Jeff Bridges, Halle Berry, and Channing Tatum are being added?! This only wets my beak even more. Not a whole lot of information is known about the plot or whom the new cast members are playing, with things being very tight-lipped around the project. What I expect from this sequel is more of the same, great laughs, really good action, and most importantly a great story and awesome new characters being thrown into the mix. This has serious potential to be one of my favorite films of 2017!

6 Dunkirk director/Christopher Nolan

In the latest Christopher Nolan movie, he will be heading to World War 2 to tackle the historic battle of Dunkirk. Let’s face it, when Nolan steps up to the plate it’s an event at the movies. He’s a filmmaker through and through and what you are watching is a spectacle you have to go see to believe. Whether it was the Dark Knight Trilogy, Inception, or his latest film Interstellar the man knows how to make a movie. If you know history, well you know Dunkirk does not end well (spoilers) so I’m curious to see how Nolan is going to pull this one-off. We got a great war movie in 2016 with Hacksaw Ridge, but Dunkirk will be packing a little more of an emotional punch, seeing how brutal and violent that battle was. There’s just not much more to say about this movie, visually it will be stunning, tremendous acting and it’s going to be an emotional time at the movies. In the end, it’s Christopher Nolan doing a war epic, I’ll be there opening night.

5 Alien: Covenant director/ Ridley Scott

In space, no one can hear you scream, but they might have heard me yelling in the theatre as I sat and watched Prometheus. What was there not to be excited about, it was Ridley freaking Scott back directing an Alien movie, and boy did it not sit well with me.

The poster alone got me excited for this movie, because as a huge alien fan, it told me everything I needed to know about this movie. I think it was the best movie poster of 2016. Then early Christmas morning FOX decided to drop the trailer for the next installment in this franchise and OMG this movie is going to be bananas. It’s everything I wanted Prometheus to be, it looks like Ridley Scott is taking it back to what made Alien so successful, suspense, gore, horror, and most important of all ALIENS. The trailer is so well put together that I don’t need to see anything else to know that I’m going to enjoy the crap out of this movie. I want to be on the edge of my seat when watching an Alien movie. I want to be a little scared and this looks like it’s going to fulfill those needs. The cast alone is just out of the charts with talent, but the person who I think is going to steal the show is none other than Kenny Powers himself Danny McBride. Actually, James Franco is in this too, so maybe this is just some crazy high and it’s somehow a Pineapple Express sequel, there’s only one way to find out. Fun fact, Terry Hall from The Mighty Ducks is in this, I honestly thought he made one movie in his life. Who knew?

4 Logan director/James Mangold

First off, props to Ryan Reynolds for leaking that Deadpool footage, because without doing so Deadpool is never made and without Deadpool, the world wouldn’t be getting a rated R Wolverine movie. This isn’t your grandma’s Wolverine here folks; it’s a whole new ballgame. This will be the most brutal, violent Wolverine yet, something we really haven’t seen since the mansion scene in X2. If watching that trailer synced to Johnny Cash’s Hurt didn’t get you fired up for this movie then something is wrong with you and you should see a doctor immediately. The trailer gave me all the feels and made me realize just how much I’m going to miss Hugh Jackman playing this role. This trailer really knocked me on my ass, and it’s something as a Wolverine fan I’ve always wanted to see. This is it for Hugh Jackman as the beloved character, it’s his kitchen sink performance you could say, he’s going to be throwing everything he’s got at this one, and for some, it’s going to be an emotional ride. He’s been playing this character for almost 20 years now (that’s insane), and this movie is going to be is swan song. I’m excited to see where this movie takes the X-men lure, and how it’s all going to play out in the end. Based loosely on the Old Man Logan story from the comics, this movie finds Wolverine teaming up with Professor X one last time to save a young mutant much like Wolverine from falling into the wrong hands. One thing that intrigues me about this movie is the Professor X storyline part, part of me thinks he will just be in Wolverine’s mind the entire time, and I can’t wait to find out if I’m right or not.

3 Guardians of the Galaxy Vol: 2 director/James Gunn

“Showtime A-holes”

The gang is back! Marvel’s misfits are returning after the 2014 smash hit that up until this year’s Civil War I considered to be the best all-around Marvel movie. This time around Star-Lord is finally getting over his daddy issues and is in search to hunt down the man. Fully loaded with another awesome mixtape, the whole gang is returning but this time we are getting the ever so cute Baby Groot!. James Gunn is back directing (duhhhh) and he cares so much about these characters and franchise that I don’t think anyone else could direct this movie. The trailer alone sold me on this movie, it looks tailor-made for me, and with Chris Pratt promising this would be the biggest most epic scale movie we’ve ever seen on the big screen. I can only hope they follow through on that promise. The humor seems to be back, and the dynamic between the Guardians is something that’s almost rare in movies these days. It’s a massive science fiction, fantasy blockbuster that just feels right. Everything from the trailer looks like it’s popped right off the pages of a comic book and it just looks fantastic. I only have one concern about this movie, and it’s a little thing but I just don’t want them shoving Baby Groot down our throats for the entire movie.

2 Star Wars: Episode VIII director/Rian Johson

The force will be strong with this movie. The Force Awakens did a great job bringing back Star Wars into our lives, all the beloved characters that people hold so dear in their hearts. It was the perfect way to set up this new universe with all the new characters and immersing them with the old. Everyone knows that this movie will be pulling on heartstrings whenever Carrie Fisher graces the screen, regardless of how much she will be in the movie. The Force Awakens did exactly what Disney and JJ Abrams wanted it to do, and that got everyone excited again about Star Wars. Now the real fun can begin with Episode VIII, and this movie is going to take Star Wars in a new direction, one that people really haven’t seen before. People are going to want this movie to be the Empire Strikes Back of the new trilogy, for me I just want it to be something new and fresh. Let Rian Johnson take this franchise to places it’s never been before and do things we aren’t accustomed to when it comes to the Star Wars universe. The director Rian Johnson knows how to make a great science fiction movie, Looper was such a unique and original story that I don’t think I would be as excited for this if he wasn’t sitting in the director’s chair. Obviously, everything is very hush-hush about this movie, but one thing is for certain and that is the return of Luke Skywalker, and I’m pumped to see Mark Hamill back on the screen playing the role that made him famous. I’m curious to know where they will take his character and ultimately just who has Luke become.

1 Justice League director/Zack Snyder

OHHHHHH BABY!!!! Here we go folks; it really is due or die time for WB and the DCEU. Just like Eminem said, “if you had one shot, one opportunity, to seize everything you ever wanted. In one moment, would you capture it,
or just let it slip”? If I were to say no other DCEU movie had come out, and this picture of the Justice League was released and this was the first thing we ever got to see from WB, people would lose their minds. That’s not the case, we have gotten three stinkers in a row now and time is running out for them to turn this ship around. There is so much riding on the success of this movie, and I’m just not talking about financial success here people. Let’s try to get a DCEU movie fresh on rotten tomatoes, shall we! Saying all that, we can all agree that Batfleck crushed it as the Caped Crusader. Now they are introducing the Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg into the mix and from the trailer, it at least looks like they are on the right path. I just can’t be walking into Justice League a super confident person, because I have seen the three previous DCEU movies and I just don’t know which Zack Snyder will be stepping up to bat (pun attended). The Justice League is the greatest superhero team-up of all time, and we are finally going to get to see that on the big screen, something some people have been waiting to see their whole lives. A nice change in tone, shifting away from the gloominess of BvS will do wonders for this movie. People need to care about these characters and want to see more of them when they are done watching Justice League and have people talking about whether they will be more excited for the next DC or Marvel movie. For the love of god please don’t screw this up Zack Snyder that’s all I ask of you, sincerely the entire world.

Well, there you have it, my most anticipated movies of 2017. I have a feeling 2017 is going to be a tremendous year for movies. If I did this list for 2016 all of my favorite movies from the year wouldn’t have even made the list and that’s what I love so much about movies. You just never know what you are going to love and which ones you are going to hate until you see them.

Check ya later.