Tag Archives: Universal

Film reviews

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Review

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This sequel is fun. It drags a bit, but fantasy keeps the momentum going. Directed by Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic Pierre Leduc, and Fabien Polack. They are all back after directing the first film of the series. This time they bring in more of the tunes for the experience to feel even more like the video game franchise. The result is a grandeur of colors with nostalgia. It is mind-boggling and full of adventures. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has lots of video game sound effects from the classics. There is a predictable plot, but that is what it is all about.

Chris Pratt is the voice of Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy is the voice of Princess Peach, Charlie Day is the voice of Luigi, Jack Black is the voice of Bowser, Benny Safdie is the voice of Bowser Jr., and Glen Powell is the voice of Fox McCloud. It is an adventure where Mario finds himself traveling to centuries in the universe with Luigi. It is also a film where Princess Peach is in peril, but also Bowser and Bowser Jr, are at the center of the conflict. The fantasy world of the Nintendo characters the world loves continues to be a treasure of creativity.

When I was watching this film, the many types of Mario video games kept circling in my mind. Since my first game console was a Nintendo 64, many memories came back to me instantly. I loved playing games including Mario Party, Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros, and more. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie felt like trip down memory lane. Especially given the adventures of Mario and Luigi dealing with Bowser Jr. with Bowser still the main enemy. The whole film has that good guy vs. bad guy setup—which makes it feel like a video game. Overall, the movie continues to have enough spice to provide entertainment for all ages.

It is a fun adventure, yet sometimes repetitive. I have no doubt that it will speak to Millennials. Gen Z viewers are also familiar with the video games that grabbed many people’s attention before their time. The ability to attract viewers from different generations makes The Super Mario Galaxy Movie joyful. I found myself feeling rather pleased about this fact throughout the movie. It is mostly witty and humorous, mixed with some dry moments. Still, the connection to the beloved video game kept my attention. Two-and-a-half out of four stars.

 

Film reviews

Wicked: For Good Review

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Wicked: For Good is an enchanting ride that is a continuation of the first film which was released last year. There are many special musical moments that fans will love. This time, however, there is a lot more exploration into The Wizard of Oz territory. The two witches are in their own spaces yet with a strong friendship that the songs highlight. Wicked: For Good brings wonderful glory to the big screen this holiday season. Director Jon. M Chu continues to bring the colors of the rainbow for audiences around the world. 

In the second installment, Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) have been labeled with new identities. Elphabais referred to as the “Wicked Witch of the West” and Glinda has the title of, “Glinda the Good.” The friendship vibes between Elphaba and Glinda are still woven into the story, but the land of OZ finds itself in chaos. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum) only cares about his public image, and he may not be the caring man he says he is. Meanwhile, power struggles are occurring between the witches while the land of Oz finds itself filled with many fanciful creatures.

In this film, audiences are introduced to more Munchkins, a Tin Man, and many animals. All sorts of things are set in motion in Wicked: For Good. The battle between friendship and power comes with choices. Overall, the territory is not easy to navigate. Wicked: For Good, is one of the most fascinating films of 2025. It dazzles with splendid scenes and looks closely at how hard it can be when friendship falls. I also felt the musical numbers went a step above in Wicked: For Good.

The song that captured my attention and warmed my heart most was For Good. This touching and memorable song reminded me of how people and lives change, but above all there is always good in human beings. When this number was performed, it created moving moments that brought back many vivid theatrical memories. It also reminded me of the incredible stage version of Wicked. Wicked: For Good took me on a ride to new horizons. The outstanding performances of Erivo and Grande will mesmerize audiences in this continued franchise.

The land of Oz remains a place of, but its turmoil is where the conflict lies. It provides the foundation and holds the key to magical musical moments. This is especially the case when trust is on the line, and the audience is trying to determine good vs. bad. Deep-down, the bad side is fueled by the various moving parts. I love Wicked: For Good because it reminded me how there is still time to change. Even when challenges in life seem unsolvable, we can remember the goodness in the people we are lucky to have or have had in our lives. For Elphaba and Glinda, they need to remember where it all began for them as friends. Moving forward, they must decide where their friendship stands.Find out in Wicked: For Good. Three-and-a-half out of four stars.

Film reviews

Black Phone 2 Review

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Black Phone2 intensifies the suspense and horror. Directed by Scott Derrickson, the film meets the high expectations set by its predecessor. The first installment was only the beginning. This time, the phone calls target both Finn and Gwen. Mason Thames and Madeleine McGraw reprise their roles as brother and sister. Ethan Hawke returns as The Grabber. The new storyline adds more detail. I felt more scared than in the first film.

With the film moving forward, Finn’s nightmares carry a lot of weight into this sequel. Especially with the tones of a belittling attitude, and also the much horror he has experienced, he carries on with him. The visions of The Grabber have not left, but this time, Gwen is having her own nightmares. This brings them to realize that a place called Alpine Lake may have answers to the terrors of their dreams.

What electrifies Black Phone 2 is its spiraling momentum, pulling viewers deeper into a maze of recurring nightmares and lurking mysteries. The eerie phone booth at Alpine Lake becomes the epicenter of their fears. When it rings, reality and nightmare blur, unleashing supernatural horrors that thrive at the camp. Here, Finn and Gwen piece together the cryptic patterns from their visions, each nightmare a vital clue in their search for the truth.

The writing delves into the depths of evil lying in wait, layering the sequel with fresh, unexpected scares. The film is a labyrinth of campfire terrors and shadowy histories, each piece fitting into a larger, sinister puzzle. The Black Phone 2 masterfully maintains its surreal continuity, always hinting at new horrors to come. The Grabber’s chilling voice and twisted motives remain unforgettable, and Hawke’s wicked grin steals every scene.

Overall, The Black Phone 2 is vivid. One that still has a promising continuation. I adored all the extra evidence to maintain momentum. I will also say that I felt it had a heartfelt side with the brother and sister dynamic battling horror . Especially with one that is bound to continue. Three out of four stars for Black Phone 2.