'Marshall' is based on the early legal career of Thurgood Marshall (Chadwick Boseman), years before he became the first African American Supreme Court justice. The movie focuses on a case assigned to Marshall while he was an attorney for the NAACP. A black man is falsely accused of raping a white woman and needs a good attorney to prove his innocence. The odds of anyone believing the man are low. Marshall works with another attorney and as a team they try to convince the jury the man didn't commit the crime. "Marshall' also dives into his personal life, desire to have children and the constant flow of death threats. Overall, this is an engaging film, tied to American history.
MEVOE Grade: A-
A Simple Favor Rated-R
A Simple Favor proves being alone is better than being betrayed and manipulated by a friend. Stephanie (Anna Kendrick) and Emily (Blake Lively) have children that go to the same school. The two women grow from having playdates for their kids to becoming best friends, even though they are total opposites. Stephanie is running out of money and Emily seems to be rolling in it. Suddenly, Emily disappears and Stephanie is relentless to find her best friend. Stephanie finds out Emily is running from her past. This moment shifts the movie from a playful comedy to a dark suspenseful comedy. There will be an unexpected number of plot twists that will force you to hate a character that you loved earlier in the movie. This movie is about, deception, betrayal, power and money. You will gasp and laugh at the dysfunction this film brings. Remember there is no such thing as a simple favor.
MEVOE Grade: A
Mortal Engines (PG-13)
Revenge, power and war sum up this wild adventure in a world that has yet to exist. Hester Shaw (Hera Hilmar) is a loner, who can fight with the best of them if you test her. The 21 century has ended with a 60 minute war that nearly destroyed humanity. Now there are predator cities that have been built on unbelievable mega engines. The cities chase each other down and take their resources. Hester lives on one of the poorer commuters when she and the group are captured. This capture brings her face to face with Thaddeus Valentine (Hugo Weaving), a villain in mobile London that could destroy the rest of humanity. This film is surprisingly entertaining, engaging, adventurous and overall outstanding.
MEVOE Grade: A+ MUST SEE
Candyman (R)
29 years ago a man followed by bees, with a hook for his right hand terrorized Chicago after being summoned through a mirror once his name is repeated five times. Creepy? Yes. Now the scary legend is back. An artist is trying to connect creativity for his next installment and learns about the story of Candyman in the process. The deeper he goes into learning about Candyman the more he seems to turn into him. This movie a creative sequel to the original but is it believable? It’s entertaining and scary at the same time but at times seems to try to hard at making a scary movie. MEVOE Grade: C+
Little PG-13
Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall) was bullied as a child despite her good character and intelligence. One day she decided she would be the bully and lived that way even as an adult. Then one day, Sanders took bullying too far with a little girl. The girl wished that Sanders would be small again so that she would stop her bullying ways. The next morning that wish was granted. Meet Little Jordan Sanders, played by Marsai Martin. This movie shows us how sometimes adults are still little heartbroken children that need to grow up. Despite the serious message, this is a funny, down-to-earth comedy that doesn't disappoint. Its also a very cool movie with the two leading actresses big and little as the executive producers.
MEVOE Grade: A
The Circle (PG-13)
Mae (Emma Watson), a young woman, gets a job at The Circle, one of the most sought after tech companies in the country. Mae struggles to perform well, while taking care of her sick father and spending time with her childhood friend. Mae shifts all of her attention to work and her performance soars. She also learns that the expansion of The Circle may violate privacy rights, but doesn't stand against it until a friend dies. Despite the storyline, this movie is underwhelming and boring. The only thought-provoking aspect of this movie is privacy laws, and the current level of access social media companies have right now. This is not a suspenseful thriller, this is a drama. Watson's performance is dull. Wait for the dvd to come out, this movie isn't worth the trip to the theater.
MEVOE Grade: C-
Avengers
Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall) was bullied as a child despite her good character and intelligence. One day she decided she would be the bully and lived that way even as an adult. Then one day, Sanders took bullying too far with a little girl. The girl wished that Sanders would be small again so that she would stop her bullying ways. The next morning that wish was granted. Meet Little Jordan Sanders, played by Marsai Martin. This movie shows us how sometimes adults are still little heartbroken children that need to grow up. Despite the serious message, this is a funny, down-to-earth comedy that doesn't disappoint. Its also a very cool movie with the two leading actresses big and little as the executive producers. MEVOE Grade: A
Venom Rated-PG-13
Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) is a famous investigative journalist when he takes an assignment that puts him face-to-face with a corrupt scientist. Brock questions the integrity of the scientist and the next day he loses his girlfriend and job. That's a bad day!
Eddie Brock eventually gets back to the scientist that destroyed his life but not without a little pain. Brock is taken over by a parasite from outer space. From this moment on Brock is now Venom.
The only problem is, there is more than one parasite on Earth and they are looking for hosts. Now there is a battle between good parasite versus bad parasite.
The movie is filled with suspense and humor without losing the story line. I think you will enjoy this movie for entertainment purposes only.
MEVOE Grade: B
The Lego Ninjago Movie (PG)
Expect karate chops and fierce fighting with some of your favorite Lego characters. This animated adventure begins with Master Wu (Jackie Chan) leading a team of ninja warriors on a battle against Garmadon, an evil warlord who wants to take over the city of Ninjago.
Beyond the battles, Garmadon has a secret.
He's the father of one of the warriors and he's having a hard time dealing with it. He's an evil warlord, and they're not supposed to have feelings, right? Right. The animated film takes on the serious topic of children growing up in a single parent home while maintaining a respectable level of humor and Lego action scenes, if you can imagine that.
MEVOE Grade: B+
Alien: Covenant (Rated-R)
Since 1979 the Alien franchise has been bringing screams and nightmares for generations of movie lovers. "Alien: Covenant" takes it a step further with new conflicts and danger.
This time a crew is headed through space to colonize a new planet but before they can, a rouge signal gets their attention. The crew decides to follow the signal to a planet that's closer and appears to be ideal to start a new life. They are wrong. From the moment they step on this lush beautiful planet they encounter death at the hands of an alien parasite.
As a sequel to "Prometheus" and a preview of a new sequel, there is plenty of action, death, and a bizarre admiration for aliens played by Michael Fassbender, who is the friend and foe of the Alien: Covenant. Overall this movie is great because it maintains a balance between the crew fighting aliens and each other.
Daddy's Home (PG-13)
Stepfather Brad (Will Ferrell) and biological dad Dusty (Mark Wahlberg) seem to be handle the duo date reality well. Now add their fathers into the mix and a disaster is bound to happen. Its almost like watching "Home Alone" except there are no criminals. The crashes, accidents and mistakes make this an entertaining comedy. The fathers and son remain polar opposite very well throughout the film, created a natural conflict on screen. MEVOE Grade: B
Ocean's 8 (PG-13)
Debbie Ocean (Sandra Bullock), is Danny Ocean's sister. He did plenty of big money schemes and she is no different. The day Debbie gets out of jail she comes up with a diamond heist that will give Debbie and her friends 16 million dollars each. Just as the other "Ocean's" films, the heist is an out of this world challenge. Debbie and friends will steal jewels off of a celebrity's neck during the MET Gala. Yes, insane plan! Except humor, suspense, great acting and jaw dropping moments. This plot is complex, yet simple. Debbie wants money and revenge. Find out why.
MEVOE Grade: A+
Despicable Me 3 (PG)
Gru, a reformed supervillain has grown into a responsible man who no longer has the need to steal and shrink the Moon. Gru is a loving husband and father. Now, we can add twin brother to the list.
Gru has been fired from the Anti-Villian League and the minions are left without a fearless leader. At the same time he meets Dru, his brother. Apparently, their mom lied and the kids were split among their parents. Gru finds out his dad was a supervillian too and Dru wants to learn the despicable trade from his brother. Meanwhile, the world is threatened by Balthazar Bratt, a bitter former child actor who steals a diamond to destroy the world with lasers and bubble gum. Gru and Dru battle Bratt to save the day and hopefully get his AVL job back too.
Overall, Despicable Me 3 is funny for the entire family, maintains a creative plot but it is no match for the original Despicable Me.
MEVOE Grade: B
Only the Brave (PG-13)
This film gripped my heart. "Only the Brave" is based on the true story of wildfire firemen, known as hotshots, who died trying to save a community from being destroyed. The character development leading up to the tragic ending is phenomenal. By the end of the movie you are in the mountains with them as they die. Expect an emotional roller coaster for this one. Support this film and the hotshots that died trying to protect others.
MEVOE Grade: A+
Lovebirds Rated-R
A oouple has experienced highs and lows in their love relationship for awhile. Then things start to become stressful. As they are breaking up with each other they find themselves caught in the middle of a heinous crime. Instead of running to police they run for the hills. Mistake number 1. Then they decide if they don't get the cops involved they are going to jail but before they do they try to find evidence on their own. Horrible idea. This movie will take you on a journey with a not-so-smart couple but you might laugh a little a long the way. MEVOE Grade: C
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (Rated-R)
Arthur is robbed of his birthright to the throne when his uncle, kills Arthur's father. Arthur disappears and for awhile his uncle rules the land harshly. While his uncle believes he can forced the power of the sword under his rule, but fails.
Then one day Arthur is forced to pull the sword that has been wedged in stone since his father's death and its finally revealed he is the true heir and not his uncle.
Though this is an old story, it has a new energy through director Guy Ritchie who puts a modern day spin on the film through semi-modern wardrobes, fast sequences and humor. Watch as Arthur is forced to become a man, leader and king!
MEVOE Grade: B+
The Post (PG-13)
Katherine Graham is the first female publisher for an American newspaper, The Washington Post. The Post is shifting from small time to big time in one year and making it's shares public. The Post is competing against the New York Times after it publishes top secret government information that reveals multiple U.S. administrations lied to Americans. When The Post gets a big break that will put them ahead of NYT, Graham is faced with making The Post a news leader or possibly going to prison. Based on her life during this challenging time, you see Graham evolve into a woman shedding traditional roles as a woman, for leadership and risky decisions. Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks shine in conflict and compromise through this insightful film.
MEVOE Grade: B+
A Bad Moms Christmas (R)
The trio of stressed out, under appreciated moms are back for the challenge of making Christmas perfect for their families. The challenge is increased when the modern moms are visited by their own moms. "A Bad Moms Christmas" is a witty, vulgar, funny and honest movie about the spectrum of moms all working through society's expectation to be the perfect mom. Though its a raunchy comedy, there are a couple of heartfelt loving moments too that mom's and their children will love. Take the R rating seriously, there's lots of vulgar in this movie. MEVOE Grade: B-
Beach bodies, big egos and drugs make up the action-drama 'Baywatch,' rated R. It is just under two hours long.
Mitch (Dwayne Johnson) a veteran lifeguard and Matt (Zac Efron) a pro athlete 'wanna be' lifeguard battle with each other when they should be focused on protecting the beach. Once they get passed their egos they focus on a deadly drug coming ashore and find out a new investor is behind a massive illegal operation. "Baywatch" is surprisingly believable as it centers around flakka, a drug that is currently in the news, and the politics of expanding power through corruption. While some of the stunts are unrealistic, it's entertaining."Baywatch" debuted on NBC in 1989 and was canceled after one season, ironically, performing better in reruns. Then, it gained popularity and gained success. The cult following for "Batwatch" the television show may lead to success at the box office, too.
There is action, drama and humor. Though there are plenty of laughs, this movie is not for kids and it pushes the envelope on nudity and dirty jokes.
MEVOE Grade: B
Detroit (R)
Based on the true story of the Detroit rebellion during the 1960's, "Detroit" begins with police raiding an unlicensed after hours bar during a time when African Americans are disappointed and frustrated with the inequality from the city and some racist police. That night sparks a rebellion that grows across the city prompting the national guard and state police to maintain peace. During the rebellion, one night friends are partying at the Algiers Motel, a hotel that has been shielded from the rebellion. During a prank on the national guard the night turns deadly for them. Detroit Police come to the the motel and terrorize a group of innocent black men and white women, killing three.
This film takes on the 'good versus evil' theme and injustice versus equality', whether its the police officer or the community. Everyone is forced to think, "Am I doing the right thing?" 'Detroit' is also timely and dynamic, as it maintains a painful irony as police brutality against African Americans of the 1960s is similar to the conflict of 2017. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow it maintains the grit of "The Hurt Locker" and "Zero Dark Thirty". Overall, this is a great film, with strong striking acting. However, its a disturbing true story about this countries history. MEVOE Grade: A
American Made (R)
Based on a true story, (that needs to be verified) of a commercial pilot Barry Seal (Tom Cruise), who is hired by the CIA to transport drugs and guns to an army in South America, who is supposed to help the United States' government fight the war on drugs. Along the way he gets involved with the Medellin cartel and the Iran-contra scandal.
This movie is intriguing, full of action, suspense, humor and jaw-dropping moments. The director does an excellent job of integrating history with Seal's reality. Leave the kids at home for this one.
MEVOE Grade: A+
Creed II (PG-13)
Adonis Creed (Michael B Jordan) becomes a champion boxer and wants to take life in a different direction - marriage. Around the same time, a potential boxing match is brewing. Creed is challenged by the son of the man who killed his father in a boxing match. You read it right, Ivan Drago, the man that killed Creed's father in a boxing match, has a son named Viktor. Viktor wants to fight Adonis. Despite Adonis' success and strength, fighting Viktor will be a David versus Goliath battle and Adonis is not Goliath. Though the movie is about boxing, it carries deep themes of Man v. Man and Man v. Self. You will be entertained and inspired.
MEVOE Grade: A
American Assassin (R)
Mitch Rapp's girlfriend is killed by terrorists just moments after they begin celebrating their engagement. With Rapp's future destroyed, he searches for the man that killed his fiance. Rapp begins a long journey of researching terrorist groups and travels to Libya claiming he wants to destroy America. He finally meets the man who killed his fiance but doesn't know the CIA is following him too and kills the terrorist first. Then Rapp is recruited to hunt down other bad guys. Rapp is trained by Stan Hurley and they work together to get a dangerous bomb out of a rogue agent's hands. This film begins and ends with action and delivers suspense.
MEVOE Grade: A-
The Secret Life of Pets 2 doesn't disappoint with more humor, action and suspense. Some animated films can only appeal to one age group, but "The Secret Life of Pets 2" will entertain the entire family.
Terrier Max (Patton Oswalt) has been loving life with his human mom and getting along with his neighboring furry friends, but then a new challenge comes along - a baby named Liam. His human mom falls in love and gets married and now there's a baby in the house. Meanwhile the other pets are having their own share of drama. Pomeranian Gidget (Jenny Slate) is trying to save a stuffed chew toy and Snowball (Kevin Hart) is trying to help Daisy the Shih Tzu (Tiffany Haddish) rescue a tiger that was kidnapped. The furry crew has to work together to save the cat's life. After the first couple of minutes, you forget you are watching an animated film about pets because the plots are so personable and believable. Enjoy a family-friendly movie that will make everyone laugh.
MEVOE Grade: A
War for the Planet of the Apes (PG-13)
Caesar is leading a war against the Alpha Omega military led by Colonel (Woody Harrelson). This film begins intensely in the jungle with a quick summary of why apes and humans are at war. In 2011, ("Rise of the Planet of the Apes") Caesar receives superior cognition from a drug while the human race is threatened. In 2014, ("Dawn of The Planet of the Apes") a dangerous flu makes apes more intelligent but kills off humans.
Caesar (played by Andy Serkis through capture technology) wants the war to end but Colonel believes victory can only be found through killing every ape on Earth. Caesar forces the audience to ask the question: Who has more compassion, man or nature?
Intensity, depth and brilliant moments of humor, package this 'man versus nature' theme perfectly. If this series stays on pace with previous performances it could gross worldwide 1 billion dollars.
MEVOE Grade: A
The Equalizer 2 Rated-R
Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) has changed his life from vigilante to a Lyft driver, but that doesn't last long when he finds out the people closest to him are being abused. Though McCall secretly seeks vengance for others, he remains unknown until, Susan Plummer (Melissa Leo) a life-long friend is murdered and it becomes war among him and a team of murderers. McCall is a complex character who will embrace a child making bad choices in life, while still breaking a bad guys wrist and neck. McCall never gives a direct answer unless it involves punishment. McCall has his own demon that he runs from, the death of his wife. Overall, this is a good film about a man trying to bring balance to a corrupt, cruel world. McCall is a modern-day Robin Hood, that brings equality through death. Action, drama and suspense are strong from beginning to end in this movie.
MEVOE Grade: A+
Life of the Party (PG-13)
Deanna (Melissa McCarthy) drops out of college to raise her daughter with her not so nice husband. As her daughter's life is just beginning Deanna's life is falling apart. Her husband wants a divorce. Deanna decides she is going back to college to finish her Archeology degree and finds out its time to enjoy life. Deanna's path to finding herself, is emotional, hilarious and a wild ride all at the same time. Deanna transforms into an honor roll hot mom and she's awesome. This film will speak to anyone who has sacrificed for others only to be betrayed and heartbroken. This movie will inspire you to start a new project that you stopped years ago or simply take your life back. Watch this newly divorced mom find a new life as she enjoys every second of the journey. "Life of the Party" is funny, enlightening and meaningful. Another great film for Mother's Day. Funny one Warner Bros.!
'The Fate of the Furious' (PG-13)
Action, drama, betrayal and a baby sums up this roller coaster of racing!
Action-packed drama collides with betrayal and a baby in "The Fate of the Furious."
This time, Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) is forced to betray his fast driving crew when Cipher (Charlize Theron) pops up and convinces him to steal some of the most dangerous weapons in the world. While Dominic goes rogue, people from his past are forced to re-enter his life and he's a dad.
'Furious' is packed with more action than the submarine barreling toward the faithful furious in the movie trailer. Producers went above par to make this film memorable, with car collisions that could only be possible in the eighth film.
Its difficult to maintain a believable story line, action and humor, but the faithful furious do it.
MEVOE Grade: A
What Men Want (R)
Humor, sex and lots of thoughts make What Men Want a great movie that does all of the thinking for you.
Ali Davis (Taraji P. Henson) has been successfully climbing up the ranks at a sports talent agency. Its time for management to choose the next partner. Ali thinks she's next, but finds out someone voted against her. Ali is upset and wants to sign the next star athlete with the goal of proving to everyone she should be the next partner.
One night Ali and friends go out for drinks and gets into a serious accident, but that accident gives her the super power of reading men's minds. Will it be enough to help her land the next big deal?
Check this movie out for a fun entertaining laugh out loud time!
MEVOE Grade: A
All Eyez on Me (Rated-R)
Based on the life of Tupac Shakur, one of the greatest hip hop artists of all time.
It begins with Shakur (Demetrius Shipp, Jr.) sitting in jail, while being interviewed by a journalist. Then, its followed by a series of flashbacks beginning with his childhood raised by his mother and step-father, who were both apart of the Black Panther movement. We are introduced to the on-going conflict between his mother and the government for civil rights. While living in an unstable home, this intelligent teen finds joy in Shakespeare and the arts.
Shakur finds his big break with Digital Underground and then joins Death Row with Shug Knight, a man who controls his career and money. As Shakur rises in fame, he is faced with conflict between being a voice for the oppressed and poor and reflecting the needs of a young man. This film follows the success, challenges and controversy of the young artist through the last moment of his life, when he is gunned down while sitting in a car on the Las Vegas Strip.
The upside: The movie flows chronologically through Shakur's life while embedding the pivotal moments that made America love and hate this artist.
The downside: The movie lacks depth from his mother and sister's characters. Some moments ended abruptly without clarity before going to the next scene. Some moments between Shakur and his friend Jada Pinkett are inaccurate to what really happened, with the exception of their close relationship.
Overall, this is an entertaining and enlightening film that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of a phenomenal artist seeking a balance between self awareness and growth.
Maze Runner: The Death Cure PG-13
Suspense, drama and action are a perfect blend for the third installment of Maze Runner. Thomas (Dylan O'Brien) has figured out how to escape the utopia prison he and others were trapped in by World Catastrophe Killzone Department (W.C.K.D.), a group that has been testing people searching for a cure to a deadly virus. They know there is a city beyond the walls they have escaped. Thomas vowed in Scorch Trials to save people from W.C.K.D. Now Thomas and a crew of rebel friends are trying to rescue new prisoners from W.C.K.D. and their friend Minho (Ki Hong Lee) trapped inside of W.C.K.D headquarters. From beginning to end, "The Death Cure" is engaging, emotional and full of action. Watch as survivors rise against the oppressive and ruthless W.C.K.D for their freedom.
MEVOE Grade: A
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 (PG-13)
Peter Quill and his galaxy protectors were brought together in Volume One, now they are a full-blown space fighting family with plenty of flaws.
While protecting the pretentious inhabitants of planet Sovereign they steal a prized possession and spend the rest of the movie paying for it.
Then, there's the twist, Peter meets his father and conflict spreads fast. Volume Two is about the battle for power and love.
This is where the desire to see this movie ends.
Yes, the fighting scenes are creative and engaging, but most of the film is boring. The humor is not for everyone, as it is dry, off beat and often prompts a 5 second delayed laugh.
This movie is for the loyal sci-fi, comic book lover. The highlights are extra scenes after the film ends that give hints to what Volume 3 will reveal.
MEVOE Grade: C
Molly's Game (Rated-R)
"Molly's Game" is based on the true story of a former Olympic skier whose career is destroyed after an unexpected accident. Molly Bloom (Jessica Chastain), wants to maintain her independence because of her dysfunctional family ties, so she eventually lands a wealthy job managing a high-stakes underground poker game. Bloom's life is transformed in weeks, rubbing elbows with socialites, actors, and scam artists. Bloom is fired again but craves the fast money and creates her own underground poker game that lands her in the hands of mobsters and federal court.
This is a movie of conflict between man versus self. The harder Bloom tries to liberate herself from being controlled, the more she loses control.
"Molly's Game" is underrated and deserves more media exposure because it is a well-written, suspenseful drama that engages the viewer more and more with each scene.
Though we are only in the first week of 2018, I predict this movie will be remembered for months. MEVOE Grade: A
A war for the universe is happening and the good guys are losing!
Thanos, a ruthless villain is addicted to power and death. He is ready to destroy half of humanity because he believes it will bring balance. I'm serious, I can't make this up. Thanos knows the only way to wipe out half of humanity is with six power stones. He travels the universe searching for the stones with a ruthless army and that's when the Avengers come together willingly and by force. This film operates around the themes of love, power and humanity. This may be the most devastating Avengers film yet. Prepare to leave the movie theater feeling conflicted and angry, while hoping for part two of this powerful movie.
MEVOE Grade: A+
In this psychological thriller from Blumhouse Productions and legendary screenwriter David Koepp (Jurassic Park, Mission: Impossible, Panic Room), Kevin Bacon and Amanda Seyfried star as a couple seeking a restful vacation in a remote home in the Welsh countryside. What at first seems like a perfect retreat distorts into a terrifying nightmare when reality begins to unravel, dark episodes from the past resurface, and a sinister force in the house refuses to let them leave.
- Universal Summary
Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (PG-13)
If you couldn't get enough of the Fast & Furious movie series, now there is a spin off that will not disappoint. Hobbs and Shaw starring, Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham is the the movie we needed to end the summer. Action and humor are so well blended in this movie that I had to see it twice. Unless you've been sleep deprived for 72 hours, there is no way you will fall asleep on this action-packed movie. A team of armed transporters are supposed to get a deadly virus from one location to another, when Brixton (Idris Elba), a powerful genetically enhanced villain and leader of a secret company named Eteon, wants the virus so that millions of people can be killed. This is a movie of good versus evil, family versus foe. This film takes a car chase through London to another level! There's even a traditional Samoan war chant before the final battle breaks out. Watch this movie in theaters now because I predict this isn't the last you'll see of Hobbs and Shaw!
MEVOE Grade: A+
Justice League (PG-13)
Superman is dead and Batman has a more powerful enemy to defeat. Batman reaches out to Wonder Woman and some of the most powerful metahumans on Earth: Aquaman, Cyborg and The Flash, forming the Justice League. They have to defeat Steppenwolf, an evil supervillian. The upside to this movie: there is plenty of action, suspense and humor. This film dives into what makes each character unique. The downside: Stepphenwolf looks like a cartoon character in a well produced movie. If you are a movie lover and you want to be entertained, this movie will do it. However, If you are a diehard comic book reader you will either hate or love this film. Overall, the movie brings adventure and action to the movies. MEVOE Grade: B
Knives Out (PG-13)
A murder mystery movie, with one of the most dysfunctional families you will ever meet, blends humor and plot twists together for an entertaining two hour movie. Crime novelist Harlan Thrombey is found dead in his mansion and everyone is a suspect.
Unfortunately most of the suspects are his children, grandchildren or in-laws. Detectives come to the home to question everyone but the stories are not making sense. Eventually, the true killer is discovered and it is not who anyone would suspect.
This is a modern day murder mystery, pay attention for clues. There is not a lot of action but if you are a problem solver you will love this movie. MEVOE Grade: B
Shang-Chi
A 20-something valet guy is enjoying a simple life; he goes to work, hangs out with friends and plenty of karaoke night but he’s forced to face his past. Shang Chi also known as Shawn finds himself in a martial arts battle while headed to work on a bus. His close friend finds out he’s got some super butt kicking skills. Shang Chi realizes he’s going to keep getting attacked so he has to go back home to China after he gets a post card from his home land. Once there, he realizes he’s lured in by his estranged father transforming this international journey into a battle between father and son that could destroy the world. This film is entertaining and has a great momentum. MEVOE Grade - B+
'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales' (PG-13) is two hours long and brings sea adventures back to the big screen.
Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) is being hunted by Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), who had been living his morbid life in the Dead Zone, until he and his ghost crew escaped after an encounter with a misguided ship. Captain Salazar wants vengeance and his life back since he has been trapped as a ghost. Along the way Jack Sparrow gains two allies, an astronomer and an eager sailor who've discovered clues to a treasure that can improve their lives. For this fifth sea adventure, Sparrow maintains his humor, fights and creative ways of getting out of trouble.
The upside: This films begins strong with Jack Sparrow being chased by town authorities and it literally brings a house down. It's followed by a superb special effects ending and concludes the sequel successfully.
The downside: This adventure goes on about 30 minutes too long, as we know Sparrow's antics, and it becomes routine for about an hour.
Expect a strong beginning and end, while it drifts a little during the middle.
Overall, "Dead Men Tell No Tales" fits in with the first four films and concludes as a strong action/adventure flick.
MEVOE Grade: B
Solo: A Star Wars Story (PG-13)
A young Han Solo is a smuggler before he becomes a hero. This adventure explains things that can only be associated with Star Wars movies such as, the first meeting with Chewbacca and how Han got the last name Solo. Solo is in trouble with Dryden Vos, a ruthless man, who kills when he feels like it. Solo needs to bring back coaxium for his freedom but he falls in love, gets caught in a shootout and almost dies at the multiple hands of a giant octupus in outer space. Yes, this is an adventure but this film lacks a pace that will keep non Star Wars fans engaged.
MEVOE Grade: C
Breaking In (PG-13)
Shaun Russell (Gabrielle Union) takes her children on a road trip to her father's estate outside of Chicago. No one really wants to go on the trip but its time to sell the house since her father died. Russell doesn't know thieves are headed to the house too and they are not leaving without thousands of dollars in cash. The four men kidnap her kids and Shaun does any and everything to get her children back. This movie is a prime example of how a mother will fight for her children. It's refreshing to see a woman as the hero of the family as we approach Mother's Day this month too. Overall, this is a solid movie filled with suspense and drama from beginning to end. The acting, pacing and editing are realistic and easy to follow. Union takes her attacking to another level as she fights off villains punch by punch.
Good Job Universal!
MEVOE Grade: A+
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald PG-13
Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) is angry and seeking revenge. He's transferred from one prison to another when he escapes and begins recruiting pure-blood wizards to take over the world. As he gathers his followers, Albus Dumbleldoor is forming a team of his own to find his true love and save the world from destruction, but he realizes he can not do it alone.
Whether you follow the Fantastic Beasts or Harry Potter storylines you will understand this movie without any footnotes. This movie can stand alone or as a part of a series with its magical adventure, science fiction and suspense. This movie is a roller coaster ride of excitement and mystery! It is a must-see.
MEVOE Grade: A
Jurassic World 2 (PG-13)
Dinosaurs are dying off and suffering ever since the amusement park Jurassic World was abandoned. Owen (Chris Pratt) returns from seclusion to help save the dinosaurs from extinction. A wealthy man decides the dinosaurs will be transported to a new island where they can be safe from harm. It's a lie. The dinosaurs are being genetically modified and sold off to the highest bidder. Owen and others have to figure how to save these pre-historic animals from harm and extinction. JW2 is full of action, plot twist and a new level of deception.
MEVOE Grade: A
Dunkirk (PG-13)
You will step in the heart gripping, suspenseful moments of World War II the moment this movie begins.
"Dunkirk" is based on the successful evacuation of over 300,000 Allied soldiers across the English Channel as they fought against Nazi Germany. The year is 1940. British and Allied soldiers are trapped in Dunkirk, France, and need to evacuate fast. The unexpected heroes comes from a fleet of private boats. They transport soldiers secretly and larger ships continue to be attacked. In history, it's seen as a successful rescue that saved the lives of thousands. Despite this movie's focus on one very specific event, it is effective and engaging. For over an hour you feel like you are standing beside these men and women in war. You feel their anxiety and their triumph.
World War II comes alive in the theater.
MEVOE Grade: A