Avengers: Infinity War. REVIEW (non-spoiler)

Marvel has been building this Cinematic Universe for a decade now and we have very much seen the culmination of an 19-movie arc result in possibly the grandest film spectacle of all time!

With this film following on from Thor: Ragnarok, Captain America: Civil War and several other previous releases, we are immediately thrown into the action as Thanos immediately makes his presence known after finding the Asgardian refugee ship in 2017’s Ragnarok! Without giving too much away, this interaction is then what helps connect The Avengers to the other MCU characters who have yet to come together.

Back on earth, we catch up with our heroes who are just going through everyday life. The threat of Thanos and his hunt for the Infinity Stones is enough to rally earth’s mightiest heroes to protect the planet and prepare for a climactic showdown. In a film which has SO MANY CHARACTERS, there is never a moment where a presence or personality is out of place or not required.

The cast is rich with MCU favourites, and when you see Doctor Strange and Iron Man in one quadrant and Thor kicking it with the Guardians Of The Galaxy in another, I just straight away thought this is the first true COMIC BOOK film. Watching this movie not only flits between these difference characters with ease like in a comic, but the tone and look are all perfectly complimented for each character and the image we represent them with.

Looking at the newer cast members, we are introduced to the Black Order or “Children Of Thanos” in Infinity War. While we probably don’t get to learn a lot about them, they are all formidable fighters and more than a challenge for the heroes. If I could point out a particular favourite, it would possibly be Ebony Maw who specialises in telepathy and telekinesis. This character also makes himself sound like a preacher who is happy to honour his “god” Thanos and do all he can to fulfil his plans.

The pace of the film is consistent throughout its 2-and-a-half-hour runtime, we are constantly on GO and there is never a dull moment. At the same time, there is almost no opportunity to reflect on what happened 10 minutes previously as you feel like you are living through this film. When I reached the end, there was this weird feeling of joy and delight mixed with frustration and upset, but that’s what you needed when you got to this point. The ending rallies up a number of emotions and I can honestly say I have never experienced a film like this before. Because of the MCU and its rich history over the last decade, that is why I felt this mix of emotion. Can I just say, this was the perfect ending for the movie and perfectly sets up what is to come in the next 12 months.

While writing up this review, I really wanted to say which character I thought was the best performed or the highlight of the movie. I would probably have to say Thanos is the star and actor Josh Brolin makes the mad titan one of the more satisfying villains in comic book movie history. While Kilmonger in Black Panther made the audience sympathetic and Vulture in Spider-Man: Homecoming saw a family man doing all he can, Thanos is doing what he honestly believes is the best for all of existence.

In a film with such a bloated cast, there is very little to complain about in terms of characterisation and enjoyment. Everybody plays their part and no single cast member is wasted. Some characters do get more screen time than others, but maybe this will be balanced out in Avengers 4 next year. The special effects are all top-notch and every little detail is presented perfectly. The BIGGEST congratulations though must go to directors Anthony and Joe Russo who took the reigns from Joss Whedon and have created The Avengers film that we needed. There isn’t a lot of films that can take pre-established characters and throw them together into a situation with worldwide implications, but Avengers: Infinity War shows the stakes are at their highest as every corner of the MCU is pulled into this adventure which will forever alter the cinematic Universe that we have come to know.

The humour is still fantastic throughout, the laughs do still come in great supply and it never throws us off on the emotional scenes and no death is ever underplayed! The action is unparalleled and breath-taking. Plus, how many films will you see Spider-Man, Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Doctor Strange, Black Widow, Scarlet Witch, Black Panther, Guardians of the Galaxy…you get the point! As long as you know some background knowledge on the film franchise, you can enjoy this film thoroughly. If you have been with the Marvel Cinematic Universe since day one, I will give you an air high five as we celebrate what is definitely the pay-off for ten years of dedication to this cultural phenomenon we have lived through.

Well done to The Russo Brothers, THIS was the comic book film to beat them all!

So we still have a year to wait for Avengers 4? I may need to watch Infinity War a few more times before that…and so will you!

Final rating: 10/10

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Look out for my future article where I discuss in detail more plot points and theories for the next film!

Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2! Review!

Let’s just say this, it wasn’t easy to make a film that could capture you like the first Guardians film. But James Gunn has indeed delivered a worthy sequel which is both very funny, action packed and will make you cry more than the ending of Marley & Me!

Starting just a few months on from the first film and with Awesome Mix Vol. 2 in hand, the Guardians are hired by the Sovereign Race leader Ayesha to defeat the creature the Abilisk. After things go wrong when Rocket tries to rip them off, the Guardians then have to fight to survive the Sovereign when they attack in waves of remote-controlled ships. It’s after this epic sequence that the true storyline begins.

We know that Ego is the father of Peter Quill, and these two coming together does indeed pack an emotional punch to the gut. But it is the revelations that come later in the film which really brings you crashing down to earth. Kurt Russell does give it a great go as Ego, and he stays more within his origins than I would have believed. In fact, Ego actually does serve a greater purpose for the film than many may think.

I spoke about the emotion and action, but the comedy cannot be denied. Dave Bautista’s Drax is certainly the funniest of the Guardians in the film. Whether it is him trying to define Mantis’s beauty, speaking of how Ego could mate with Quill’s mum or even a discussion on penises (yes, penis jokes and sex with a planet comment is in this movie!). Also, there is plenty of humour from Baby Groot, a lot of which comes from him being the focus of the opening titles.

This film is not all colours, action, jokes and quips. This film is definitely the most emotional of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. If you didn’t cry over the death of Peter’s mum in the 2014 film then you are: A. The most heartless person in the world, B. You mustn’t have paid attention at the beginning and C. you will have a tear in your eye when you hit the big revelation about Meredith Quill.

Expanding the Guardians roster is similar to that of The Avengers, and the characters are as unique as they come. Yondu (Michael Rooker on the top of his game) comes to join the Guardians and is effortlessly cool. Nebula (Karen Gillan) reluctantly becomes a member, and you can see she would rather be anywhere else in the universe. The best of the new Guardians for me though is Mantis, Pom Klementieff is fantastic as the character and you almost want to adopt her for how adorable she is throughout. Innocence is rare in this franchise, and it is only her and Groot who are probably the only real innocent characters in the film series.

Speaking of Groot, it was a stroke of genius to keep him in his smaller form. This does work for many occasions, and it also brings some more comical moments that could not happen with the full-grown Groot. He seems bent on causing a lot of havoc for Rocket, but he does show he cares. Groot does at times seem a bit helpless, but you can’t deny he makes you laugh a lot. Let’s be honest, everyone does bring some laughs.

Chris Pratt still brings his best as Peter Quill and Zoe Saldana likes to play with her chemistry with Quill as the straight-faced warrior Gamora. I really liked Pom Klementieff in this film and I can’t wait to see her part in Avengers: Infinity War. Dave Bautista’s Drax is indeed the scene-stealer each time, he does get the best lines and even all the penis talk is seen as really funny just because it comes from Drax.

While I may think there are a couple of little issues (number of characters, changes of pace), these are nothing much of concern. I didn’t see this film wanting a clone of the first, I wanted a natural progression. The film flows nicely, all the little easter eggs and nods to the grander Marvel world is very welcome. Also, possibly the greatest Stan Lee cameo ever? It is definitely up there! Then there is the soundtrack! I didn’t think it could happen twice, but it certainly is a highlight again. Songs from Fleetwood Mac, Looking Glass, ELO and more (I think the soundtrack will be a review on its own!).

A movie with lots of humour, so much action and more heart than a Gallifrey full of Time Lords. James Gunn creates another masterpiece which will only build excitement for Avengers 3 and Guardians Vol. 3! Maybe not the best that the MCU has made, but certainly the best blockbuster of 2017 so far!

Final Rating: 9/10

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 – First Trailer Review

Well this looks awesome! The first trailer for Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 just hit the internet today and it indeed looks fantastic. There was so much in the trailer and 90 seconds really was not enough! Though the actual story itself isn’t delved into (that would be more for the 2^nd trailer), we do get a few good teases of the returning characters and the humour which made us love them in the first place. Here is the trailer, and then I will break down some of the big points…

Hooked On A Feeling – Again!

It is almost impossible to not hear the Blue Swede song and not think of that first Guardians Of The Galaxy movie. The song perfectly creeps in through the trailer as we are reacquainted with our favourite space outlaws. We get quick glimpses of the characters in the trailer, bringing us the team that saved the universe in 2014’s hit film…and they are not alone.

Yondu joins the Guardians…and Nebula?

Yes, that is happening. We have heard that these two would be joining the Guardians in their next adventure, and it certainly does look exciting. A great shot of Michael Rooker’s Yondu (looking as badass as ever!) and Rocket walking past a number of falling enemies (the ravagers?) is definitely a stand out. Then we also get that quick shot of Karen Gillen as Nebula, who is looking a bit different to her previous portrayal. That is a flesh tone on her nose and chin isn’t it? Either way, to see these two switching sides to the good guys means they must need some help!

Star-Lord, Gamora and Drax are ready

The main focus on this trailer is with the three human/humanoid leads which gives you some insight to how they have changed in the last few years. Gamora still seems to be fighting strong and will possibly be having a few moments when her adopted sister joins the team. Then it looks like Peter Quill/Star-Lord is starting to have feelings for his companion Gamora (and we know he will be having some moments with his father Ego at some point in the movie. Then we have Dave Bautista’s Drax, who seems to have become more human but still adds a sense of humorous awkwardness to his character. Damn, we have waited so long to see these guys back on screen.

Drax is the heart of the movie?

“You just need to find a woman who is pathetic…like you”. While Drax may still lack basic understanding like his fellow Guardians, it is funny to see him try to get in touch with his human side. His insistence on hugging Star-Lord and his comments are from a good place, it’s just a shame that Peter Quill doesn’t feel the same way. Something tells me that Drax will be the person we all go to for sense and heart in this movie…I know, I didn’t believe it either till I saw the trailer.

Groot is still tiny

Remember when they took that piece of Groot and he was reborn? Well, he is still growing up. Groot, arguably one of the most surprisingly popular characters in the MCU, was a very welcome addition to the trailer and I can’t wait to see how he will impact on the story. It has been said Vol. 2 picks up around a few months after the original movie, so maybe he does just need some more time to grow. Also, how adorable does Groot look in that little jacket? I think I know what a must-have toy of 2017 is going to be!

Any Avengers: Infinity Wars hints?

Well at this moment, there seems to be no connection between this film and the 2018 crossover movie which will see the heroes of the MCU finally come face to face with Thanos. While there isn’t any actual mention of the mad titan or any characters away from the usual Guardians Of The Galaxy cast, does that forest maybe look a little like earth? It is a long shot, but who knows! This may be the team coming to earth to help the Avengers? This film looks incredible and I can’t believe I still have to wait over half a year to watch it. I really hope this goes quick…otherwise I may need a hug from Drax!

Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol.2 is out in the UK on 28^th April 2017 and in the US on 5^th May 2017.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

What songs should be in Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2?

I have to say that Guardians Of The Galaxy is still one of the best films I have ever seen in my life. This movie had brilliant characters, the best writing, look amazing and had the most appealing soundtrack I have ever heard. True, all the songs are from the 1970’s and had been out previously, but that didn’t stop them from fitting in perfectly to the film. So I have been thinking, that first album was so awesome…but what will Volume 2 be like? I have got 15 songs on this list which I really hope will be part of the upcoming MCU feature and why they would work. How about some Queen? Maybe a dip into the 80’s? Let me know what you would choose (this is just my personal opinion, but I hope you like the choices)…

Blondie – Heart Of Glass

We know that Peter Quill’s fellow guardians are fans of the music. So how about a scene in which Gamora is dancing along to this 70’s hit? Blondie is perfect mixtape material. The band has got so many tracks which would work well in the Marvel sequel, but ultimately this one would just really set a great tone for the film!

Queen – Radio Ga Ga

I know for a fact this would already break the barrier from Awesome Mix Vol. 1, but as Peter’s mum gave him the second tape in 1988, there is a good chance to have one of Queen’s mightiest anthems. There is a lot of songs to choose from, but I am sure a great montage could be formed using this classic tune.

Pretenders – Brass In Pocket

Yet again I can just imagine this classic being a good song for the cast to be dancing around to. Maybe if a love scene between Star-Lord and Gamora was to come. Romantic? Maybe not. But there is something about this song and the belief from many listeners that this relates to intercourse just sounds like it could fit in.

Kate Bush – Wuthering Heights

There is something about this song which just screams comedy gold to me. I don’t know how exactly it could fit in, but there is just something about this Number one track from Kate Bush which would surely benefit from Chris Pratt’s Star-Lord trying to sing along to it.

The Who – Behind Blue Eyes

There needs to be one or two emotional songs in any soundtrack. I am sure meeting his father would be a very emotional time. How about taking one of the more gripping tracks from their back catalogue and placing it front and centre when he finally meets Ego?

Elton John – Ego

Speaking of Ego, how about the Elton John track of the same name? I will be honest, there isn’t much that can be done with this track. But you never know. It could be a fun track to chuck in there somewhere, otherwise ‘Goodbye Yellow Brick Road’ could also be a great addition.

Whitney Houston – Saving All My Love For You

So I said there had to be some emotional tracks in the film. While I was thinking of the 80’s for inspiration, I just think this would be another great track for the relationship of Star-Lord and Gamora. We will see if it does happen.

A-Ha – Take On Me

Could this be the tune to a fight scene? It would certainly work well for a chase scene in the movie! Again, I know nothing of what is to come apart from what has been officially released, but I know this song would fit in perfectly. Blending the 70’s and 80’s music would certainly be highlighted with some A-Ha.

Madness – Our House

The one thing we get from the Guardians is that they are very much a family. They also are living together on the Milano and I reckon they must have a family feel to them when we see Vol. 2. ‘Our House’ is fantastic and would be great for the start of the film.

Thin Lizzy – Jailbreak

Will we get another sequence like the escape from The Kyln? If so, why not give a spin of the famous Thin Lizzy track which I think would have been perfect for that scene in the first movie. A great rock tune and another fine addition of the playlist.

Bee Gees – Stayin Alive

Why not include some disco in the mix? Bee Gees and Chris Pratt sounds like a match made in heaven, but imagine Bautista’s Drax getting into the groove? Baby Groot could be in the background with Gamora and Rocket singing along? Please make it happen.

Abba – Mamma Mia

What would be wrong with Abba? Nothing!

Belinda Carlisle – Heaven Is A Place On Earth

I am sure something will encourage Star-Lord to return to earth, and I think it would be this song that would make him want to return. It is just a great song which does great as a pop tune and a more serious track overall!

AC/DC – Highway To Hell

Every film needs to have a kick arse song to end it…and I think this would be great. It is presumed that the movie will be a lead in to Avengers: Infinity Wars, which needs something big to bridge that gap. If you are about to take on the most dangerous being in existence, there has to be something that really sets that tone. The classic rock track is indeed perfect to close the film!

David Bowie – Space Oddity

Yes, there was a Bowie track on the first film, but would it hurt to have another? David Bowie sadly left us earlier this year and it is a shame he never got to become part of this brilliant film world. But how great would it be to have ‘Space Oddity’ play in this film? I think it would be perfect for the film and I reckon James Gunn must have considered it at some point! Please please please have this as part of Awesome Mix Vol. 2!

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove