Moana

BRYCE **1/2
Disney returns with yet another headstrong princess on a musical adventure in "Moana."  It seems like I say this about a film almost every year, but "Moana" is probably the most beautifully animated movie I have ever seen.  From the lush tropical islands to the incredible water effects, the "Moana" animators have certainly raised the bar for their craft.  Much like the last two Disney musicals, "Tangled" and "Frozen," this latest movie has one great featured song ("How Far I'll Go" by "Hamilton" writer Lin-Manuel Miranda) and a half a dozen forgettable songs that do their job, but don't really stand out.  Also like the last two Disney musicals, in an attempt to be "hip," many of the characters speak like contemporary teenagers and provide more than a few eye-rolling lines.  While it bothered me in very few moments in those other movies, it seems especially egregious in this one.  The film's biggest offender is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's character Maui.  He's supposed to be an ancient demigod but comes off like a 16-year-old high school jock. Outside of those complaints, "Moana" is pretty successful.  I was engaged throughout the film, I just wish they would've tweaked a few things to maximize its potential.

CHASE ***
LANDON ***
LOGAN ***

BANGERANG SCORE: ***

Arrival

LANDON ***
Denis Villeneuve sure has an eye for filmmaking.  "Arrival" is undoubtedly one of the most well-made and expertly crafted films of the year.  Aliens have visited earth and it's up to a team of decipherers lead by Amy Adams (in a terrific performance) to interpret their language and figure out why they're here.  This is all being told with jaw-dropping cinematography, fantastic visual effects and an eerie yet memorable score.  I was completely engrossed the entire time.  The only real pullback I have with this film is that the climax is a little jarring, and even a little more complicated than it really needed to be.  Still, this is one of the best films of the year and will be sure leave you breathless with its technical prowess.

CHASE ***1/2
LOGAN ***1/2

BANGERANG SCORE: ***1/2

Doctor Strange

CHASE ***
As the newest installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, "Dr. Strange" was an enjoyable film within its own right.  The filmmakers did a lot of things right and while it may not be perfect, I still really enjoyed it.  Played by Benedict Cumberbatch, "Dr. Strange" is about a doctor who learns to access spiritual powers and how he becomes a hero within that world.  What I liked most about the movie is how unique it is.  The visuals are a sight to behold and the characters are really enjoyable, especially Benedict Cumberbatch as our main protagonist.  The story does feel a little bit like the original "Iron Man" and follows through some similar beats.  But I feel that they made enough changes that make it it's own thing. I like that it focuses on the spiritual aspect of the comics and I'm surprised how well it fits in the Marvel Universe.  It does have its flaws, though, as some of humor can be a little hit-and-miss and the climax feels a little underwhelming especially when compared to earlier action sequences.  Overall, I really enjoyed "Dr. Strange" and those who are looking for a change-up in the superhero genre can find it here.

LANDON ***
LOGAN ***

BANGERANG SCORE: ***

Kubo and the Two Strings

CHASE ***1/2
Being impressed by the past Laika films, I was expecting something great from "Kubo and the Two Strings," and I was not disappointed.  While it may not be as good as "Paranorman," I thought it was a standout film.  The story is about a young boy named Kubo who's on an adventure with a monkey and a beetle while being chased by an evil force.  The animation is the movie is gorgeous to look at.  The aesthetic of the visuals and music is pleasing and feels like such a breath of fresh air compared to most movies that we have today.  On top of that, they did a really good job with the characters and the action sequences, making them really stand out.  It has a good sense of humor and a lot of heart to it.  The only things that are holding it back are the climax of the movie which could've a been a little bit stronger and that the jokes could have had a little more punch to them.  But outside of that, I loved this movie and those who want to see it will not be disappointed.

LANDON ***
LOGAN ***

BANGERANG SCORE: ***