“Dare Ya!” explores what has made the members of Hong Kong’s most controversial band, LMF (LazyMuthaFuckaz), the new “voice of Hong Kong youth”. Their music may raise eyebrows with the older generation, but to their hardcore fan base, LMF’s point of view is their “voice” and their music is the heartbeat–and their hopes, dreams, nightmares, concerns, problems, and solutions for their future. As the title of this raw, different, relevant, and timely film suggests, “Dare Ya!” is a challenge to Hong Kong to take a good look at itself, warts and all, because only by facing up to our flaws can we become the “World City” that we aspire to. “Dare Ya!” is not just a documentary about the exploits and growth of ten ordinary young men from the Estates who just happen to be members of a rap band, but a wake-up call for Hong Kong.
Even with its straightforward premise, “Richard Jewell” is ramped up by exceptional drama. In all honesty, the performances are out of this world. As Jewell, Paul Walter Hauser becomes a walking representation of gullibility. His bumbling antics create the perfect hero, and very quickly, we feel the societal heat that surrounds our protagonists.
"Spider-Man: No Way Home" isn’t just a movie; it’s an experience. It's one of the best superhero movies thanks to the amazing writing, the fantastic performances from the actors, and a healthy helping of fan service.
"Abominable" is an exciting story for children and a great step forward for positive Asian representation.
Earth and Blood is slow, but it still has it’s entertaining moments. If you’re into thrillers, or want to watch something new, then this film might be for you. As for me, Earth and Blood was tolerable enough.
The Flounders are back in this sequel that takes place one year after the events of 'Malibu Rescue'.
The social issues The Half of it takes on are handled well, between the antagonization brought on to Ellie for her race and the conflict that arises from her being gay. Both aspects of her character are built up over the course of the film and don’t seem abrupt or rushed. The film shows racism towards Ellie and her and father in varying levels, from having her schoolmates specifically address her as "Chinese girl” to the fore mentioned way her Dad is treated due to language barriers. The same can be said about Ellie being a lesbian. While she never truly “comes out” in the narrative, that does not undermine her journey of self-discovery from being meaningful. These ideas aren’t thrust upon the viewer in a preachy manor, the scenarios that occur feel believable given the rural setting. The film presents watchers with problems whom those like Ellie may face, and leaves us to sit with them and reflect.
