After seeing Mortal Engines I really wanted to say it was a 2/5 because the third act was so bombastic, however this film just doesn't work. It's undeniable from every angle except the visual effects, its a shame too, I was on board this moving monstrosity throughout the marketing and up to the opening narration threw me off.
Bumblebee (2/5)
Finally a watchable Transformers film. While its only the second best of the saga for me (the best being bays first film) Bumblebee still hits where the previous five films dare not to venture, having characters and genuine emotion behind it. The film flounders dramatically with plenty of disposable characters at play, but at least its trying and the chemistry between Charlie (Steinfeld) and "B-128" is more then enough to propel the film when it begins to sag.
Aquaman (2/5)
Its fun. That's what Warner Brothers wanted this to be right? Well its fun. It's not particularly deep (pun intended) or substantial, there is an easy 40min that could be trimmed without changing the narrative in the slightest, but at least its fun. In all honesty Aquaman gave me just what I wanted, a goofy action extravaganza, but I felt lacking. The film felt shallow (no apunologies). Aquaman panders to a basic pallet offering everything it promises in spades leaving me wishing I asked for more.
Marry Poppins Returns (2/5)
Of all the films this season Marry Poppins disappointed me the most. There were early Oscar ramblings for this film! I was hyped, ready for the La La Land of 2018. No, Marry Poppins is not "shallow" like Aquaman nor does it "flounder" like Bumblebee, its just weak. Its a pitifully weak story. Problems presented throughout the course of the narrative have no satisfying solutions. I have this new succubus theory surrounding the whimsical nanny and I'm not sure if that makes me like this film more or less. In the end Marry Poppins may not be the most disposable film this Christmas, it has its bright spots, but its most certainly the least fulfilling.
If Beale Street Could Talk (3/5)
A great romantic drama came to a theater near me this Christmas and its name Beale Street. Sure it has its piece to say, but the narrative behind it is strong, the performances tight and its scenes some of the best in 2018.
Vice (3/5)
I had a minor anxiety attack watching this film, not because of its subject matter but more to do with the film making and how its constructed. Nevertheless, Vice is a excellent follow up for Mckay after The Big Short, practicing all of Mckay's strengths even though it doesn't reach touch it as a film. Vice is the greatest high school documentary ever made, just please don't show this to high-schoolers.
And that's it...at least for now. Stay tuned for the definitive best and worst of 2018 list.
