Film Review: "Captain America: The First Avenger"

What truthfully defines a superhero? Is it the ability to fly through the air in a suit made entirely of indestructible material? Is it the ability to read someone’s mind; no matter the distance? Or, is it the capability to unleash heavy amounts of wind and lightning through wielding an ancient and commanding hammer? Even though these abilities are astounding, they actually do not represent everything that a superhero should stand for. The superhero in question is defined through performing far more respectable abilities; such as diligence, audacity, and resolution. In other words, the individual must be, at all times, honorable. And, this past Sunday evening, I viewed a film that showcased what it truly means to be a superhero. I’m talking about Director Joe Johnston’s exciting blockbuster “Captain America: The First Avenger.” When watching this fun-filled adventure, I was delighted to see a hero, who, no matter what, remained true to himself; even after he acquired the powers of speed and strength. For we are introduced to a protagonist whose greatest facets are his own determination and courage. Combined with an engaging storyline and many great performances, you could not ask for a better superhero film. Thus, I can positively announce without any faltering:

“Captain America: The First Avenger” Contains Plenty of Action and Heart




Set during World War II, we meet Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers; a gaunt and fragile young man who greatly wants to join the United States Army. After a failed attempt to enlist, Rogers goes to the movies; where he urges a fellow viewer to remain quiet. This leads to the ruffian picking a fight with Rogers in a nearby ally. Even though his opponent is stronger, Rogers refuses to give up; and keeps springing to his feet despite the pain he endures. When it looks like the moviegoer is going to do away with our hero; Rogers’ friend James 'Bucky' Barnes, genially portrayed by Sebastian Stan, sends the punk running away. It is revealed that Barnes has been allowed into the army; and that evening, he invites him along to go dancing with two girls. Later on, the four stop by the World’s Fair; where engineer Howard Stark, played by Dominic Cooper, unveils his latest inventions. While the group observes, Evans’ Rogers walks away, and goes to enlist once more. Bucky approaches. While the two discuss, medical expert Dr. Abraham Erskine, played compassionately by Stanley Tucci, hears about Rogers' numerous attempts. Dr. Erskine enters the patients' room where Rogers is waiting for for his required examination. The kindly doctor brings forward all his rejected applications; and comments on the young man's committment. After talking with Rogers, Tucci's Dr. Erskine accepts him into the program. . Meanwhile, at a secret location, Nazi Leader Johann Schmidt, terrifyingly played by Hugo Weaving, is planning world domination; and he is equipped with the Tesseract; a glowing cube enabling the blood-thirsty villain to achieve an unlimited source of power to ignite his deadly weapons. After killing some visiting Nazis, Schmidt urges his troops to refer to their own sector as “Hydra” and that they now refer to him as “Red Skull.” While this is going on, Evans’ Steve Rogers is partaking in military training; while Colonel Chester Phillips, portrayed energetically by Tommy Lee Jones, looks on. Despite Tucci’s Dr. Erskine’s faith in Evans’ Rhodes, Phillips is less-than-impressed with the young soldier; even as Rhodes constantly demonstrates perseverance and ingenuity throughout every test. When Jones’ Phillips’ tosses a fake grenade into the group for another test, Rhodes immediately jumps on top of it. Seeing as Evans' Steve Rogers has passed this military test , Jones’ Phillips reluctantly agrees to let Rhodes undergo a top-secret operation designed to dramaticaly increase a soldier's strength and speed. That evening, Dr. Erskine tells Rogers about the operation; and invites the young soldier to undergo the process—and Rogers agrees.










Image taken from
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The next day, Chris Evans's Steve Rogers arrives at the testing lab; accompanied by officer Peggy Carter, who, played commonly by Hayley Atwell, kept an eye on the young soldier during training-- and eventually becomes his love interest. accompanied by Officer Peggy Carter, who, played commonly by Hayley Atwell, would eventually become the film's love interest. In the center, there is a chamber that is being opperated by Dominic Cooper’s Howard Stark and Stanley Tucci’s. Rogers enters the colossal metallic chamber; in which he is injected with the serum that will give him new strength as well as speed. Eventually, thanks in large part to Rogers’ strong-will, the experiment is completed. However, as everyone congratulates Dr. Erskine, a visiting public figure kills the doctor and triggers a bomb to go off. As Erskine dies, he silently gestures Rogers to remember this important rule: always be a good person. Following his mentor’s death, Rogers swiftly goes after the assassin; who, after being caught following a high speed chase, is revealed to be a working with Weaving’s “Red Skull.” Soon after, Evans’ Rogers becomes a national sensation; leading him to appear in USO shows under the nickname of “Captain America;” complete with a costume embodied in vivid red, white, and blue colors—as well as a shield embroiled with the same colors. Eventually, it is discovered that a bunch of soldiers have been taken captive by "Hydra;" and soon enough, Chris Evans' Steve Rogers takes it on himself to go to their rescue; thus leading to our hero demonstrating many acts of selflessness and courageousness. And, while we watch every sequence play before our eyes, it is safe to say that "Captain America: The First Avenger" is a movie that proves to be quite inspirational and memorable.




Part of what makes Director Joe Johnstons' 2011 epic so unforgettable, is that lead actor Chris Evans gives a performance that is both earnest and genuine. As protagonist Steve Rogers, our male lead does whatever he can to establish a strong sense of credibility. Before his hero undergoes the treatment, Evans emakes himself appear so very weak and incapable of performing acts of physical strength; so much so, that we immediately know he's going to have a hard time joining the United States Army. And, dururing the sequence in which he fights the loud-mouthed moviegoer in the ally, we observe Evans' sharacter huff and puff; greatly trying to remain standing up throughout the scuffle; thus allowing us to feel his pain. And, as we see Chris Evans' Steve Rogers fidget on the ground in an effort to keep himself concious, our hearts go out to him; thus making the whole sequence emotionally-gripping as well as realistic. In addition, as we watch Evans' protagonist immensely attempt to keep up with his fellow recruits during their training exercises, we hold on to our seats; sincerely hoping that he will emerge victorious. And, when Chris Evans' hero ultimately receives the injections that will re-shapen his body, we grit our teeth in a state of honest suspense, as we hope, for his safety, that all will go well. In other words, Chris Evans has is keeping us in a state of honest suspense; thus winning our cheers and support.





And, when his character acquires his newfound strength and speed, Chris Evans continues to win our attention. As his on-screen persona chases after the man who killed Stanley Tucci's Dr. Erskine, we root for him; knowing that his focus is still present and he still wants to remain true to himself. And, when Chris Evans' hero is participating in the USO show, we know in his heart that he would rather be out on the battlefield fighting with his fellow troops. Furthermore, as his character begins fighting the forces of "Hydra", Chris Evans never abandons his dedication to the role; always remaining focused on the scene at hand and keeping his presentation believable. Henceforth, Evans' overall performance is very remarkable; and the role of Steve Rogers might be the actor's best one ever.




While Chris Evans gives us a great performance as Steve Rogers, a majority of the supporting cast did a fine job with their designated roles as well; particularly Hugo Weaving’s menacing performance as the villainous Johann Schmidt; aka “Red Skull.” As the film’s antagonist, Weaving guarantees a more-than-intimidating feat as the leader of “Hydra;” and watching him command his troops was very striking. In addition, his confrontations with Evans’ Steve Rogers proved to be very intense; as their acting completely matched-up-- allowing us to be completed engrossed in the action. What’s more, when his true appearance is revealed, his presence in the film becomes even more fearsome and intense. Thus, Hugo Weaving’s overall act is very efficient; thus becoming a memorable component of this exhilarating movie.


Image taken from
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Furthermore, it is also very important to mention Tommy Lee Jones’ vigorous accomplishment as Colonel Chester Phillips; leader of the platoon Chris Evans' protagonist fights alongside. Throughout his involvement in the film, Jones offers a commanding feat; declaring each phrase with extra panache and liveliness. His presence is both authoritative and endearing; as he is able to express compassion during some essential sequences. What’s more, his character’s exchanges with Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers are very engaging; thus allowing us to laugh and enjoy . Furthermore, it is imperative to mention that the absolute inclusion of Tommy Lee Jones in a superhero film is a great concept; seeing as he is frequently cast in more dramatic roles. What’s more, it is truly wonderful to see Jones provide some comical energy; thus making his participation even more wonderful.















Image taken from
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But, while a majority of the cast offered memorable performances, it is unfortunate to say that Hayley Atwell's overall recital as love interest Peggy Carter greatly lacked keenness. It was disappointing to see the film's female lead barely have chemistry with Chris Evans' character. Her overall acting fell flat; and her presence with the cast failed to pack a punch. This is more-than-unfortunate; as the rest of the film’s cast did a great job representing their particular characters; Stanley Tucci performed endearingly as Dr. Erskine, Sebastian Stan acted dynamically as Evans' on-screen friend James 'Bucky' Barnes, and Dominic Cooper worked more-than-well as Howard Stark. In other words, Hayley Atwell’s presentation proved to be a major weakness ; which, in turn, saddened me slightly-- seeing as the rest of the movie was enjoyable.

Nevertheless, while a majority of the performances were memorable, the greatest component of Joe Johnston’s blockbuster would be the overall message that screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely were conveying to the audience: no matter what happens in life, you should always be a good person. As we see in the film, Stanley Tucci’s Dr. Erskine has immense confidence in Chris Evans' protagonist; on account of his fortitude and grand rightousness . The kind doctor knew that, even though he wasn't strong in body, the young man was strong in spirit. And, as we observe him at the start of the film, we know that we are witnessing a young man who will never give up; even when the odds are greatly against him. In addition, as when viewing him desperately trying to keep up with his fellow trainees during a military crawling exercise, we can honestly take note of his incredible persistance and determination. And, even though our hero's physical structure and capabilities dramatically changes on account of the serum, his courage remains as strong as ever; especially when he becomes a one-man army when attempting to rescue his fellow soldiers from Hydra's clutches. In other words, throughout the entire film, Steve Rogers embodies all the necessary traits that define the perfect hero: resilience, courageousness, and selflessness. No wonder he is equipped with title of "Captain America;" seeing as he is the perfect symbol for our great country.
Image taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?q=%22Captain+America:+The+First+Avenger%22+%22Steve+Rogers%22&hl=en&tbm=isch&tbnid=Bf5gDibciI7KoM:&imgrefurl=http://www.movizone.net/watch-captain-america-the-first-avenger-online.html&docid=JLrdO2U5KXi0wM&w=534&h=274&ei=fWI0TsXyBoy00AGt4rGeDA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=585&vpy=71&dur=3750&hovh=161&hovw=314&tx=154&ty=78&page=8&tbnh=78&tbnw=152&start=139&ndsp=21&ved=1t:429,r:11,s:139&biw=1171&bih=541



And that makes Director Joe Johnston's "Captain America: The First Avenger" even more wonderful. Just as Chris Evans' Steve Rogers demonstrates throughout the film, it is the power of honorableness that defines who you are. If you go through life being completely principled and determined, than you can achieve great things. Even if you are able to lift heavy objects or run at great speed, it is not enough to get far in this world. You have to be able to try your hardest and be outgoing towards others. Otherwise, you are just someone who can run at great length; and that is nothing truly special. For Director Joe Johnston, Screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeeley, and Actor Chris Evans have all done an amazing job depicting not only a genuine superhero; but also a genuine person-- just like my friend Greg.




E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

That's Nater-Tainment! Presents... Comedy Film Quotes

While you wait for my next review, I thought I could bring you a game to play. Below are some quotes from some well-known comedies. Your task is to name the person who said each quote as well as identify the movie it is from. Try your best to answer.

1. "For just one night, let’s not be Co-workers. Let’s be Co-people."

2. "I’m a stay at home son."

3. "How can we be expected to teach children to learn how to read if they can’t even fit inside the building?"

4. "We put liquid paper on a bee, and it died".

5. "No. I like to rock n’ roll all night and part of everyday. I usually have errands. I can only rock from like 1-3."

6. "This sticker is dangerous and inconvenient. But I do love Fig Newtons."

7. "It takes a man to give away an angel. You’re sweet."

8. "There were two sides to that billboard, and they both hurt equally."

Try your best to identify the person who said these quotes as well as guess the film. I'll be posting the answers sometime after I submit my next review. Good luck.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

Here it is: The First Teaser for "The Amazing Spider-Man."

Here is the first official teaser for the July 2012 blockbuster "The Amazing Spider-Man." As you know, this is the much-anticipated reboot that will bring the iconic hero back to the silver screen; this time under the direction of Mark Webb. "Social Network" co-star Andrew Garfield is taking the coveted role of the Marvel-created web-slinging superhero; and I am very excited to see him in his first big-budget lead role. I am also looking forward to seeing Emma Stone play Gwen Stacey, the hero's first true love interest, and I'm sure that the two performers will have great on-screen chemistry.

Sometime next week, I will express my full thoughts regarding trailer; as well as my opinions about the reboot as a whole. But, in the meantime, please tell me what you think. Do you think this reboot is a good idea? Why or why not? Please feel free to post your comments as well as e-mail me at the address below. Until then, have a great weekend; and stay tuned a lot more Nater-Tainment!!!!

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

EDIT: Unfortunately, I will be posting this piece sometime later. I am planning to post a review of "Captain America: The First Avenger" before the week ends. I will post a writing about the "Spider-Man" reboot at a later date. But, Stay tuned. My next review will be be GREAT!!!

Film Review: "Transformers: Dark of the Moon"

What makes a movie truly successful? Is it a series of fight secenes between adversaries that tend to consume most of the film's running time? Is it giant tentacles made of unescapable metal that are able to snatch someone in a matter of seconds? Or, is it mind-boggling3D graphics that burst through the screen right in front of your very eyes? Well, my friends, the most important aspect of any movie is quite simple: its an easy-to-follow storyline that enables the characters to appear completely real. Also, through the power of a strong narrative, we are able to empathize witch the cast's on-screen personas; thus allowing us to root for them every step of the way. In other words, a quality film is only enhanced through fine acting and an entirely thought-out story. But, of course, there are always directors out there who are more concerned with dazzling their audiences with special effects; rather than enlightening them through a powerful story and strong character development. And, I actually saw a film this past Thursday evening that mostly centered upon computer-generated superbeings constantly exhibiting major capabilities; thus thus causing much destruction. I'm talking about, of course, Director Michael Bay's summer blockbuster "Transformers: Dark of the Moon." This film greatly suffers immensely due to an abscence of strong story structure, too many subplots, and not-so-great-acting-- thus making the whole affair completely ridiculous and drawn-out. In addition, Director Michael Bay appeared more focused on crafting the special effects; rather than paying more attention to the storyline as well as the quality of the acting; thus making most of the cast members' performances appear one-dimensional and staged. Thus, I can say without any hesitation:

It Seems as if the Special Effects of of “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” are More Centered-Upon than the Screenplay; as well as a Majority of the Performances



In the third installment of Director Michael Bay’s blockbuster franchise, Shia LaBeouf’s protagonist Sam Witwicky is living in a studio apartment with his new girlfriend Carly Spencer; played decently by model-turned-actress Rosie Huntington- Whiteley. Our male lead is expecting a visit from his over-protective parents Ron and Judy Witwicky, played by Kevin Dunn and Julie White respectively, who are strongly disappointed that their son has-yet to land a serious job. After a series of interviews, San Witwicky gets hired to work at a communications company called Accuretta; which is run by an eccentric employer named Bruce—played by John Malcovich in a surprising appearance. Meanwhile, the valiant Autobots are working with American soldiers in an effort to keep the world safe from danger. During an assignment at Chernobyl, the Autobots' strong leader Optimus Prime, voiced with great power by Peter Cullen, locates evidence of the ARC; a spacecraft from their home planet on the moon. During an inspection, they discover Centinal Prime; an Autobot leader that has been deactivated. They also notice The Pillars; which Centinal Prime has created in order to establish a bridge designed to convey material from two points. The Autobots bring Centinal Prime and The Pillars back to Earth; in hopes of being able to reactivate the former leader. At the same time, Shia LaBeouf's Sam Witwiky is suspicious of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's boss Dylan Gould, played without any dynamic by Patrick Dempsey, who is constantly at her side. Following a tour of her company, LaBeouf's protagonist takes Huntington-Whiteley's character for a tour of his new job. Sometime later, a wormy co-worker named Jerry, played by Ken Jeong, in an unexpected appearance, approaches LaBeouf's hero in a men's room stall and gives him documents regarding the ARC. It turns out that Jerry has been working with them; and he is eventually killed by a Decepticon; that has actually been taking the form of his computer. The villianous robot then starts attacking the office; keading LaBeouf''s Witwhicky and Huntington-Whiteley's Spencer to make a hasty retreat.










Image taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://0.tqn.com/d/scifi/1/0/A/K/0/-/watch-transformers-dark-of-the-moon-online.jpg&imgrefurl=http://scifi.about.com/od/Transformers-Dark-Moon-2011/ig/Gallery---Transformers--Dark-of-the-Moon---2011-/Shia-LaBeouf-as-Sam-Witwicky.htm&usg=__Z5cAjQHcKx8psTi34v5jvtxMAtE=&h=365&w=550&sz=56&hl=en&start=168&zoom=1&tbnid=cj5p8jpkp2iHwM:&tbnh=111&tbnw=167&ei=1OgZTvCgKuPh0QHF3KmXBQ&prev=/search%3Fq%3D%2522Transformers:%2BDark%2Bof%2Bthe%2BMoon%2522%2B%252B%2BSHIA%2BLABEOUF%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D1280%26bih%3D596%26tbm%3Disch&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=203&page=10&ndsp=17&ved=1t:429,r:6,s:168&tx=144&ty=41




Following the attack, our heroes arrive at the Autobots' headquaters; where he meets with old friend Colonel Lennox-- once again played by Josh Duhmel in a very generic manner. They also meet Charolette Mearning, portrayed without any distinction by Francis McDermond, the Director of Central Intelligence, who does not approve of our male and female leads' presence. After being told of the reanimating of Centinel Prime, has brought about the Decepticons making their moves. However, it is later revealed that the former Autobot commander, voiced with extreme ferver by Leonard Nimoy, has an agenda that does not reflect the same intentions as those possessed by Opimus Prime and his teammates; thus leading to a series of events that prove to be very destructive and time-consuming. And, while all the special-effects are interesting, a majority of the film consists of not-so-stellar performances and assorted storylines that tend to be very convoluted and pointless.

When watching Director Michael Bay’s epic, the computer-imagry, while very fascinating and well-constructed, distracts you from the fact that there is no insightfulness present whatsoever. All your attention is completely drawn to the colossal, intergalactic, and automotive beings that are the Autobots and the Decepticons. They shape-shift from their giant robot-form into their designated vehicular mode—and vice versa— at a blink of an eye. And while these transformations are fascinating, seeing as how quick they chnage their mode of operation, many of the film's battle sequences between the two opposing sides take up much of the film's running time and end up quite redundant. These fight scenes drag on forever; thus possibly losing the audience's interest.






Image of Centinal Prime taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLPskslDVKHjrMphM7Q7HyF0XJvpJkoVLNBtMst-JUNSR3lltVy9PGPfOOxmu7oTPrbhcYkkD9dJwv91M6C1zGGGYUjkDts4RmaxCD3llQCOKuw8bVjBchEjBNjnRQnNx3NSpyuP4MyA/s1600/Transformers+3+4.jpg&imgrefurl=http://brianvsmovies.blogspot.com/2011/07/transformers-dark-of-moon.html&usg=__ijirI9ytzfhp6k1CgEMdtiYMbT4=&h=438&w=700&sz=111&hl=en&start=0&zoom=1&tbnid=09zl7CmXX4dBIM:&tbnh=177&tbnw=255&ei=AOgZTtuoEqba0QGsp7WXBQ&prev=/search%3Fq%3D%2522Transformers:%2BDark%2Bof%2Bthe%2BMoon%2522%2B%252B%2B%2522Sentinel%2BPrime%2522%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D1280%26bih%3D596%26tbm%3Disch&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=188&page=1&ndsp=12&ved=1t:429,r:7,s:0&tx=112&ty=17

Surprisingly, however, I will say that each of the robots are given a personality that truly defines who they are; thanks in large part to the voicework. For instance, Peter Cullen gives his heroic Autobot a very dependable and benevolent sensation; thus enabling moviegoers to cheer for him throughout the film. Also, actor Hugo Weaving provides a sinister and frightening aura for Megatron, the leader of the blood-thirsty Decepticons; thus making it more-than-evident that he is capable of unleashing severe damage onto the human race as well as the Autobots. Even Leonard Nimoy provides a thunderous performance to his on-screen-alter-ego Sentinal Prime; especially when his true objectives are revealed—thus allowing the audience to receive a complete shock. In other words, the voice actors give their respected characters the distinction they require in order to be completely effective.
Image of Optimus Prime taken from http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://fcdn.filmonic.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Optimus-Prime-Transformers-Dark-of-the-Moon.jpg&imgrefurl=http://filmonic.com/transformers-dark-of-the-moon-trailer&usg=__mnM8TXSc0RLfqXI89oiTcuNQ70s=&h=258&w=500&sz=62&hl=en&start=167&zoom=1&tbnid=T5Dc41xqtAd6HM:&tbnh=93&tbnw=181&ei=YucZTpbWA-630AHEqcmWBQ&prev=/search%3Fq%3D%2522Transformers:%2BDark%2Bof%2Bthe%2BMoon%2522%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D1280%26bih%3D596%26tbm%3Disch&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=328&page=10&ndsp=18&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:167&tx=124&ty=19

But while the vocal performances are quite strong, a majority of the cast's performances are not so powerful. Thanks to the directing of Michael Bay, a majority of the performances are completely one-note and not at all real. For instance, Josh Duhamel delivers nothing special whatsoever to his reprisal as Colonel Lennox; as his character is nothing more than a basic army soldier—resulting in a strong lack of emotion whatsoever. Also, actor John Turturro gives an overly-cartoonish recital as Agent Seymour Simmons; a former agent who specialized in studying the destructive nature of the Decepticons. His character provides the comic relief for the film; but his efforts prove to be more annoying and you wish that he would tone down his behavior greatly. In addition, Patrick Dempsey provides a flat performance as Dylan Gould; the employer of Rosie-Huntington-Whiteley’s Carly Spencer. His performance in the film is the most disappointinl; seeing as his character proves to be essential to the overall point of the film. . Simply put, Michael Bay did not allow any of these actors a chance to really perform; seeing as the utilization of special effects was his chief goal for the film.

However, I will say that lead actors Shia LaBeouf and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley work quite well together; thus turning in good performances. Just as he did in the previous two installments of the “Transformers” franchise, LaBeouf provides us with high-energy that makes his character’s frequent state-of-panic believable. In addition, the actor further strengthens his on-screen persona by displaying a sense of over-confidence; as he has now gained national recognition for saving humanity from the Decepticons twice before. In fact, it is important to say Shia LaBeouf is the best actor of the entire film; as we witness his ability to switch from an alarmed state of mind to a completely composed manner seemlessly. In other words, Shia LaBeouf is a very talented actor; and I wish that he would take more roles like his dramatic feat as aspiring business trader Jacob Moore in last year’s “Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps.” I strongly recommend that you watch this movie; as you can see the actor give a performance that is even more memorable and dramatic than the one he gives under the guidance of Michael Bay.

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It is also necessary to say that Hollywood newcomer Rosie Huntington-Whiteley gives an alright performance as Carly Spencer; the new girlfriend of Shia LaBeouf's protagonist. She exhibits fine chemistry with her male lead; and they possess the ability to match each other’s acting skills nicely. However, I will say that Whiteley did not work well with some of her fellow cast members; especially with Patrick Dempsey’s Dylan Gould— as their dialogue and interactions do not exhibit any flair and sincerity whatsoever. Hopefully, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley can stregthen her acting abilities in time for her next film; that way, her career will not be a short one. Overall, she gave a passable performance; but I'd like to see her in another film that does not rely on special effects. That way, we can make a full judgement concerning how good an actress she can possibly be. Nevertheless, while the special effects are intriguing, I find the chemistry between Rosie Huntingon-Whiteley and Shia LaBeouf, as well as the performances of the voice actors, to be the greatest aspects of the film.







And what was the worst component of "Transformers: Dark of the Moon," you ask? Why, that would be the long-winded script that screenwriter Ehren Kruger wrote for this movie. Throhgout the motion picture, several plotlines come into place. For instance, we have the Autobots discovering Sentinel Prime on the moon and re-animating him; thus bringing about destructive consequences. We also see Shia LaBeouf’s character searching for a job; and eventually gaining employment. However, once the company is attacked, that entire storyline is abandoned. Furthermore, we also have the relationship between Patrick Dempsey’s and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s characters; leading to LaBeouf's Sam Witwicky's distrust as well. In addition, many robots are introduced throughout the film; leading us to lose track of which team they are on: Autobot or Decepticon. Throw in other subplots, such as John Turturro’s Seymour Simmons’ association with Francis McDormand ‘s Charlotte Mearning, and the return of Tyrese Gibson's Former Agent Roger Epps, who, by the way, delivers nothing special whatsoever to the film as well, and you got too much going on.

Ultimately, however, the whole purpose of this film is to depict the ongoing battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons. Unfortunately, with the presence of too many characters and plotlines, we just do not have enough time to center on the primary story as a whole. Maybe if Screenwriter Ehren Kruger and Director Michael Bay just kept the Autobots, the Decepticons, Sentinel Prime, as well as human stars Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Patrick Dempsey as the primary human adversary, we would have a much simpler and enjoyable adventure.

But, nevertheless, what we see is what we get. And, we are basically watching a two-and-a-half-hour commercial for a toyline that is sure to be doing very well in stores. And, seeing as there is going to be a fourth "Transformers" film, I have a feeling that we are going to see more of the same in the next couple years or so. Hopefully, Michael Bay could get his act together and create a quality film that contains a nicely-polished script and strong performances; thus establishing strong character development. However, with Shia LaBeouf reportedly being done with the entire franchise, I have a feeling that Bay is going to make the fourth installment even more storylines and add more characters as well; thus making the next chapter even more confusing and time-consuming. And that, my friends, is far more destructive than any giant robot.

E-0-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

My Next Review Will Be... "Transformers: Dark of the Moon"!

Tonight, I will be seeing the third installment in the action-packed “Transformers” franchise. By the end of the weekend, I will have a review of Michael Bay’s 3D summer blockbuster. For my analysis, there will be:

· A summary of the film’s plot.

· My reactions to the performances of stars Shia LaBeouf, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, and female lead Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

· My feelings about the eye-grabbing visual effects and the overall use of 3D technology in the film.

· My thoughts on the characterizations of the heroic Autobots and the villainous Decepticons.

· My opinion of Michael Bay’s directing style.

· And More.

Judging by the preview, it appears that the film’s greatest feature with be the intense special effects. I extremely wish, however, that there will be a well-written storyline and strong performances as well.

So, don’t miss my review of “Transformers: Dark of the Moon;” which will be available sometime on Sunday. And, as also I plan on seeing "Horrible Bosses" in the near future, you can bet there will be another erview up a few days afterwards.

Stay tuned! You are in for a good number of reviews this month. After all, we are in the heart of the 2011 Summer Movie Season! The fun is just starting!

Hello to All My Followers and Guests

I hope everyone has a wonderful Fourth of July Weekend. It's July and it's time for more blogging fun!

I want to welcome my newest followers to "That's Nater-Tainment!". I'm sure that you are going to enjoy visiting my blog on a regular basis.

It is my promise to provide all of you with in-depth reviews of movies of all genres: comedy, drama, action, etc. I will be presenting my opinions on different film releases; as well as different television series and the entertainment industry as a whole.

In the coming days, there will be critiques of July's biggest films. I will also be posting some opinion pieces as well; including an editorial about the evolution of modern-day comic book films.

I also want to mention that I am a big fan of the long-running NBC sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live. I will be writing a couple of mini-reviews of some of this past season's episodes. I also plan on reviewing every episode that airs for the series' upcoming Thirty-Seventh Season; which will start in late September.

Henceforth, enjoy yourself. I will be posting a writing toward the end of the week. And in the meantime, you can comment on any of my previous writings. I encourage you to share your opinions by posting where it says "comments." In other words, this is YOUR website as well.

So, stay tuned. Have fun and I look forward to posting my next writing. Thank you all for visiting; and as they say in Hollywood: "Lights, Camera, ACTION!!!"

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com