Thursday, May 3, 2012

From the Mind of Nate: My Views of Three of 2012's Biggest Upcoming Movies



By now, you all know that I'm a humor buff. I do love laughing loudly and honestly during a cleverly-written and well-performed comedy film being showcased on a movie screen at the local theater. However, it should be made clear that I do happen to enjoy the films depicting  popular comic book superheroes that constantly battle super-powered villains on a regular basis. And this upcoming summer, we, the movie-going public, will be treated to three blockbusters; each designated to one or several superheroes who commit themselves to protecting all life on Earth. Henceforth, I can say with all sincerity:

I Am Looking Forward to Seeing This Summer's Biggest Superhero Films

Blasting into theaters tomorrow to start off the Summer movie season is “The Avengers;” which happens to be the ultimate crossover film. Directed by Joss Whedon, this super-powered blockbuster features the combination of some of the biggest superheroes of the past few years. This movie features the teaming-up of a good amount of superheroes that have been featured in Marvel' superhero films since May 2008. “The Avengers” features Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark; the billionaire-philanthropist, who, when equipped with a metallic suit, is known as “Iron Man.” The film will also feature Chris Hemsorth's Thor, a god-warrior from the interstellar world known as Asgard; as well as Chris Evans' super-soldier Steve Rogers; better known as “Captain America. Both Thor and “Captain America” were featured in their own movies last year; and now, they team up with Robert Downey Jr.'s on-screen persona for this exciting and inevitable action megahit. Joning them will be Black Widow, played by Scarleet Johansson, who was introduced in 2010's “Iron Man 2;” as well as Hawkeye, an expert marksman played by Jeremy Renner-- as well as Bruce Banner, played by Mark Ruffalo; who, as a result of an experiment, turns into the powerful Hulk whenever he is angered. Assembling the team in Nick Fury, played by Samuel L. Jackson, who has served as the connection device between the “Iron Man” films as well as “Thor” and “Captain America: The First Avenger.” Together, they will fight the wrath of Thor's adoptive brother Loki, played by Tom Hiddleston, who plans to take over the world with his massive army. What's interesting is that Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark, Chris Hemsworth's Thor, and Chris Evans' Steve Rogers have either fought evil separately or when leading their own forces. Now, the they are going to have to get used to working with each other; despite any friction that comes into play. I'm looking forward to seeing these character work together; and as a result, seeing all their respective performers interact with each other. I just hope that everyone gets their fair share of screen time during the movie. That way, everyone gets a chance to shine and we will be treated to an exciting film that is rich in quality acting and engrossing storytelling. However, “The Avengers” is not the only superhero film I look forward to seeing during the summer of 2012.

Swinging into theaters on July 3 is “The Amazing Spider-Man;” which happens to be the next superhero movie I look forward to seeing this summer. Directed by Mark Webb, this is the much-anticipated reboot of the original film,; which actually opened up in theaters back in 2002 and starred Tobey Maguire as the iconic hero. Thus time Andrew Garfield, who portrayed Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin in 2010's “The Social Network,” plays Peter Parker; the sixteen-year-old high school student that gets bit by a radioactive spider-- turning him into the wall-climbing, web-slinging superhero known as Spider-Man. In this film, Director Mark Webb and Screenwriters Alvin Sargent and Steve Kloves focus on Peter Parker's search to find out the truth about his missing parents; a subject the original films didn't focus on, Joining Andrew Garfield in the upcoming blockbuster is Emma Stone; who portrays Gwen Stacy-- Peter Parker's first true love. From what I've read in various articles, Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone worked very well together when making the film; so much so, that they are now dating in real life. And from what I've seen in the film's trailers, Garfield and Stone interact very well-- and I'm looking forward to seeing the two young actors work alongside each other in the sure-to-be exciting escapade. In addition, Rhys Ifans will be portraying Dr. Curt Connors; a former partner of Peter Parker's father, who eventually transforms into The Lizard; a menacing reptilian foe that is bent on unleashing havoc in New York City. I am hoping that “The Amazing Spider-Ma” proves to be a memorable comic-book film that possesses plenty of passionate performances and quality writing; thus establishing it as one of this summer's biggest hits. This will prove to be a mighty challenge; especially when taking into consideration the equally anticipated blockbuster which will hit theaters nationwide seventeen days later.

On July 20, “The Dark Knight Rises,” which happens to be Director Christopher Nolan's sequel to his 2008 hit “The Dark Knight,” will finally be released. The movie, which happens to be the final installment in Nolan's franchise, will once again star Christian Bale as Bruce Wayne; the billionaire by day who happens to be the caped crusader known as Batman by night. This time, Bale's hero will face the extremely muscular and intelligent Bane; who will be played by Tom Hardy-- who also starred in Christopher Nolan's 2010 blockbuster “Inception.” Judging by the trailer for “The Dark Knight Rises,” Tom Hardy will be supplying a very intense performance to his character; one that could end up being as memorable as Heath Ledger's portrayal of The Joker in 2008's “The Dark Knight.” addition, Anne Hathaway will be portraying the mysterious Selina Kyle; who, in skin-tight leather, becomes fellow enemy Cat-Woman. I am looking forward to seeing Anne Hathaway turn in a performance that is unlike many of her past roles; seeing as she usually stars in romantic comedies like 2006's “The Devil Wears Prada” and 2010's “Valentine's Day.” However, I am most excited about seeing Christian Bale once again don the outfit and showcase his brilliantly-powerful portrayal of Batman. Seeing Bale never once lose grasp of his steadfast performance is wonderful; seeing as the actor takes his role very seriously. And, in this particular installment of Christopher Nolan's franchise, which happens to be the last, Bale's hero will also be facing the wrath of the Gotham City Police; who are out to bring in the caped crusader after he took responsibility for the death of attorney Harvey Dent; Aaron Eckhart's on-screen persona from the previous film-- who became corrupted by Heath Ledger's The Joker following the death of Maggie Gyllenhall's Rachel Dawes. In other words, this movie's going to feature A LOT of gravity and action. And seeing as Christopher Nolan is helming the movie, I know that this movie will surely not disappoint!

So there you go! These three movies I am very excited to be seeing in the weeks ahead. But which one will be the best? “The Avengers,” “The Amazing Spider-Man,” and “The Dark Knight Rises” all have great casts and exciting potential in their plotlines. I just hope the movies' writers present us with well-structured storylines and strong character development. After all, the writers are the true brains behind the films. They have the assignment not to rely on just special effects to enthrall audiences. Every character must be appropriately developed; thus enabling us to cheer for our heroes and not and be fearful of the villains, That way, every character is human in mind and spirit; regardless of any interstellar society they come from. The writers were given all the requirements for presenting us with truly great stories. Thus, they must not let us down. In the words of Peter Parker's wise Uncle Ben: “With Great Power, Comes Great Responsibility.” I couldn't have put it better myself.

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