Category: November 2024

Moana 2 “Review”

Release date: November 27, 2024 (USA)

Directors: Dana Ledoux Miller, Jason Hand, David Derrick Jr.

Story by: Jared Bush; Dana Ledoux Miller; Bek Smith

Distributed by: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Box office: $109.6 million

Music by: Mark Mancina; Opetaia Foaʻi

Enjoyed the first one back in 2016! WoW I had to check that to confirm it’d been almost 10 years since then. INSANE! Wasn’t all that into watching the sequel but glad I went.

If you’re coming back for dem feels then Moana 1.5 is the place to be. I’m calling this title Moana 1.5 as I heard this was meant to be a Disney + Series however released as Moana 2.

Sadly, as much as I had a good time, this felt like a TV Series converted to a movie. With no real villain or antagonist, some world-building, and revisiting characters we know and love, this felt like an outstanding 1.5 series.

Maybe it’s due to Red One souring my taste these days for Dwayne Johnson. I felt like the best parts were coming from Auliʻi Cravalho whom voices Moana. Maui was cool and all and had one of the better forgettable songs but the supporting characters and Moana’s sister were what stole the show here.

Speaking of the songs, they felt good in the moment but nothing WoW! Incredible! That will stay with you after you leave the theatre. Honestly, everything felt great but doesn’t match that of the original. I’m hopeful for the sequel of Moana to bring this home.

Discussing that of the theatre and the experience. Massive shoutout to everyone at Harkins putting in solid hard work. Y’all crushing it and putting on a stella experience.

Studios pivoted to the streaming model during 2020 while theatres had to find ways to survive. With Disney + Shows like Moana 2 coming to the big screen and doing so well. I really hope other studios continue to bring their content to the theatre as that’s the greatest experience to behold such a spectacle.

When I began this “Reviewing” journey back in January 2024 I thought to myself. I’ll watch the movies I miss in the theatre on a digital platform. In attempts to do that multiple times, I don’t get that movie-going experience at home. I find myself distracted with other options or wanting to play World of Warcraft these days haha. While at the theatre I’m connected with the movie on screen with no other distractions. I’m able to fully immerse myself with what the title is offering me.

It’s for this that I recommend you go out and watch Moana 2 in theatres. Enjoy the emotions, the story and the characters that couldn’t be experience while at home watching Disney + in the background.

Maybe that works for Red One which is a disappointment. But for experiences of good content you need to feel emersed at the theatre rather than being at home. I was surrounded by so many people enjoying this title along with me. That feeling of connection to other movie going enjoyers like myself and future “Reviewers” watching their first movie was such a delight and something special.

With all that, I’m giving Moana 2 a Popped score of 8/10, a great watch. Could rewatch this film again in preparation for the sequel or even as a continuation after watching the first film once more.

Happy Holidays everyone! Hope you’re all doing well out there and enjoying time with family and loved ones. I may not remember any songs but sing a favorite song in your head as you head to your nearest theatre to experience Moana 2 or any movie this holiday season. Say thank you and give your cashier or theatre staff member a smile. Some say it’s contagious :D.

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Wicked Part 1 “Review”

Release date: November 22, 2024 (USA)

Director: Jon M. Chu

Distributed by: Universal Pictures

Adapted from: Wicked, The Wizard of OZ

Budget: $145–150 million

Cinematography: Alice Brooks

I enjoyed the play many moons ago pre-COVID. I’ve watched and enjoyed The Wizard of OZ several times. So it’s awesome to finally be in a timeline where Wicked has been created into a theatrical movie.

I’d like to start by reminding people that Wicked is a musical. I just didn’t want anyone to be surprised when going in to watch this movie. Although comparing the length of this movie to Joker, this felt to have the same or slightly less music. (I’d like to have had more music, which I’ll get into later.)

The Wicked movie is told from the perspective of our two witches, Elphaba (Played by Cynthia Erivo) & Galinda (Played by Ariana Grande). Setting up the movie we start with Galinda, Munchkin Land, and the death of the Wicked Witch of the East. The story begins by highlighting the fact that Dorothy has arrived in OZ. This story travels back to prior times introducing Elphaba from conception, her childhood including introducing her sister, and then how Elphaba & Galinda became friends with one another in school.

You’re watching a musical so let’s begin with that, shall we? It’s awesome! Countless good songs throughout this 2-hour and 31-minute spectacular (Skip the non-post-credit scene crawl unless you’re enjoying the music). My most remembered songs going into the film were fantastic and knocked each performance out of the park. I may even lock this title in for the Oscars for Best Production & Costume Design. Some of the music was elevated by these two categories making the scene/s stand out and worth re-watching.

As usual, I’ll keep story spoilers away and touch on brief topic matters despite being based on the Wicked Broadway play. This theatrical release incorporates a book that I never read.

I found it fascinating the history on animals and how much this played into the storyline of Wicked. Maybe I missed this while watching the play but it gave so much grounded development to Elphaba and strengthening her decisions and choices that leads her to become who she is later on.

I’m a real underdog supporter in movies so to incorporate this, I was totally enthralled. I have so many notes to discuss however I just want you to go out and experience this movie for yourself. (Caveat – You’re watching a musical remember. Don’t want any surprises like Joker now) If you’re not a fan of musicals this maybe a hard watch despite the incredible performances from the entire cast.

Something that stands out early is the chemistry felt between Elphaba & Galinda, something truly magical and that captivates throughout. I had a moment of emotional swirl get me during a scene, helping with the long run time. When you start to feel the movie length you’re heading into the final act which feels to go by in an instant due to how good it is. I’m ready to re-watch again and could have sat another 3 hours watching Part 2.

I’m not sure about movie of the year however do checkout my top 10 list which has shifted somewhat with this release. I may have to re-watch Dune 2 as it’ll be bumped off the list which doesn’t seem right but it’s a strong 8.5 almost 9 so we’ll see by year end.

With that giant hint, I’m giving Wicked Part 1 a Popped score of 9/10. Worthy of a Blu-ray purchase and definitely a multi-re-watch.

Out of the big 3 to end November I’d say this is the clear winner. (Despite not seeing Moana 2 yet so let’s see next week if that stance changes) – Thank you all for coming by Popped for your movie “review” and looking forward to hearing your thoughts in the comments.

Did you check out Wicked yet? What’s your top 10 looking like in comparison? Let us know before the next popped batch of “Reviews”.

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Gladiator 2 “Review”

Release date: November 22, 2024 (USA)

Director: Ridley Scott

Story by: Peter Craig; David Scarpa

Distributed by: Paramount Pictures

Based on: Characters; by David Franzoni

Box office: $87 million

When a mystery movie presents itself to you, purchase that ticket. It may very well treat you to a delightful surprise. Having just watched Gladiator for the first time in preparation for the sequel. I’m very excited that this review will arrive earlier than expected!

I wont draw this out over the next 2 hours and 18ish minutes so lets get to the point. – Did you enjoy Gladiator? – Then you’ll enjoy the sequel. Did you enjoy the characters and want to see more from Lucius & Lucilla in a sequel? Then you’ll love Gladiator 2.

Did you have any issues with Gladiator? Was it too long? Did the battles? Does the content matter? Anything? Then Gladiator 2 is going to be a hard sell, as the sequel literally takes the first movie and expands on it on a much grander scale.

Until the last third, Gladiator 2 would top Dune 2 from my top 10 list. However, without getting into spoilers, I’ll leave it as Gladiator 2 is a great movie that you’ll probably find yourself watching again, but it falls short of being as good as its predecessor.

Giving Gladiator 2 an 8/10 Popped review score. Does a good job of being a sequel while also providing enough information for those new to the franchise to follow along and work things out. It may even intrigue those new to go back and watch the first movie to piece connections together.

Still interested in hearing more? Then let’s dive in a little more without going into spoiler territory.

Gladiator 2 sets up the story giving a brief recap to the original and then setting the stage 16 years later as an incredible siege battle commences sea vs fortress. Those who may have seen an extended cut of the film may fondly remember this as it was used in marketing the movie.

As mentioned above, the settings and scope of the movie are expanded upon from the first movie. Similar story points while offering a grander experience in a modern cinematography era. Visually this feature is breathtaking. The actors do a great job and love the dynamic between the two new emperors.

Music harkened back to the original score while adding new elements to enhance what was before. Loved the overall direction of the story despite some shortcomings in the third act that left some development jarring.

I felt the original was better-paced than the sequel. However when the feeling of slowness came to mind the momentum picked right up engaging me and capturing the moment once more.

That’s enough without going into spoilers and I’d much rather you go out and experience this feature.

Watched the original or not, I’d love to hear if you’re going out this weekend to watch Gladiator 2. Maybe you’ll watch the original after/before also.

It kind of works the reversed way of how Mad Max and Furiosa worked in a tangent of one another. Knowing what’s to come the feeling of watching Furiosa into Mad Max is fantastic.

I feel like Gladiator 2 can work that way with knowing that such a great foundation was laid before it could be experienced and gone back to live those moments that lay the seeds to grow into.

Thank you for coming to Popped for your movie “Review” of Gladiator 2. Come back Thursday for your dose of Wicked Part 1 as we roll into the Wickiator weekend. Is this the new Barbenheimer?

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Red One “Review”

Release date: November 15, 2024 (USA)

Director: Jake Kasdan

Budget: 250 million USD

Story by: Hiram Garcia

Distributed by: Warner Bros. Pictures, Amazon MGM Studios, Universal Pictures

Music by: Henry Jackman

Welcome, fellow moviegoers, to Popped. Blog with this week’s batch of “Reviews.” We started with A Real Pain, now for the real pain of a movie Red One.

Red One showed so much promise and yet gave it all away within the trailers. Failure from creation itself, some may find that their batch of cookies to Santa may be salvaged toward the end. However, the undercooked middle and surprised aftertaste of the first bite could put people off.

Red One opens with a younger version of our main character Jack O’Malley being played by Chris Evans. This opening scene felt like a Christmas movie before the 30 year time skip to present times.

Callum Drift (Played by Dwayne Johnson), an ELF member and bodyguard of Santa Claus is one day away from retirement as the naughty list grows each year with worse and worse adults. The magic of Christmas is waning on him but Santa reminds him that he does this job for the children that are no longer children to remember that feeling of their younger child.

Jack O’Malley, an L4 bad guy, gets into a situation where his actions result in Santa being kidnapped by an unknown group. Callum and Jack go on an adventure (which is all in the trailer) to rescue Santa and save Christmas.

The ingredients are all there. There is so much goodness behind Dwayne Johnson that he takes up 90% of the screen time. If only he gave the camera to anyone else to show off the world of the awesome creatures and characters supporting the film for 10% this could have been enjoyed more.

If you’re looking for a Christmas movie where a “failed” parent learns a lesson and does a good deed then I’d recommend seeing Elf. You feel the magic in that film and the characters all get to shine, unlike this film which finds it hard to show the creations that are forced to the back.

I hovered in the mid scores for sometime until an hour and a half where I wanted to walk out as I was done. The last 5 to 10 minutes was fun and I enjoyed the remaining good cookies in the batch as the film got to show off for a moment its creation.

Back and forth on the rating, however, I’m going with a 4/10 below average movie that may even be lower than others. This brings good news to my bottom 5 list as Abigail has been saved from ending the year in my bottom 5 by being joined by Red One.

This maybe hard for some as I’m sure many were looking forward to this title. If you enjoy the rock spreading the Christmas cheer through adult language then you may enjoy this movie. For me though I’ll be enjoying Elf and the best Christmas Pageant ever.

Thank you all for coming by Popped. Blog and I look forward to seeing you next week for 2 big doses of “Reviews” – Wicked & Gladiator 2.

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A Real Pain “Review”

Release date: November 1, 2024 (USA)

Director: Jesse Eisenberg

Distributed by: Searchlight Pictures

Box office: $1,020,065

Produced by: Ewa Puszczyńska; Jennifer Semler; Jesse Eisenberg; Emma Stone; Ali Herting; Dave McCary

Production companies: Topic Studios; Fruit Tree; Rego Park; Extreme Emotions;

Welcome fellow movie goers to Popped.blog with this weeks batch of “Reviews”. Starting with A Real Pain followed by Red One.

A real pain follows two Jewish cousins David & Benji (Being played by Jesse Eisenberg & Kieran Culkin) as they venture on a tour of Poland to honor their late grandmother.

With an excellent sound track with beautiful melody of piano music travelling the inner connection between scenes. I fell in love with the surrounds and musical notes that brought scenes completely together.

The connection between the two cousins kept me engaged and entertained throughout. Benji is unlike David and with that some old tensions resurface while exploring their family history.

Benji had so many layers to explore the movie felt wrapped and yet open to explore with Benji’s journey. Something of which David was able to have closed in a manner that left me feeling a real pain to drop my 7 to a 6.5/10 just slightly missing the mark of a good movie.

It’s a fine line, a very fine line of being a good solid 7 however I wanted 1 more scene for Benji. The supporting cast with the tour group were a delight and honestly did a really good job mixing up their characters with Benji and David in totally polar opposite ways.

It’s a short movie and thus worth checking out if you happen to catch it streaming or at the theatre this weekend. Next week are the biggens so ensure some appetizers before the big 3 of November.

A Real Pain will be getting a 6.5/10 placing it above average.

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Heretic “Review”

Release date: November 8, 2024 (USA)

Directors: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods

Distributed by: A24

Box office: $3.8 million

Music by: Chris Bacon

Production companies: Beck/Woods; Shiny Penny

I was sold on this movie when people compared it to Black Phone. Loved that this movie referenced south parks book of Mormon. Shall we dig in?

When two young missionaries, Sister Paxton & Sister Barnes (played by Sophie Thatcher & Chloe East) visit Mr. Reed’s (played by Hugh Grant) home during a stormy night. They become ensnared in a deadly trap where their faith will be truly tested.

The most intense and educational scene on monopoly plays out. The rain continues to drip while music plays. 3 individuals find themselves in a game of cat and mouse. Who’s going first? Which action will you take? Is that blueberry I smell? The more you discover the less you discover, unless you play the game right.

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie without going into spoilers. Enjoy the ride, look around at your surroundings and pay attention. It may very well save your life.

Loved that Mr. Reed was both terrifying yet harmless. Gave you choices yet kept control. Sold a theory yet purchased a theory. I’d honestly watch this movie again. Was it perfect? Not quite. But a great movie? You bet ya!

Popped “Review” for Heretic – 8.5/10 – Great movie with excellent performances. Loved the sound and visuals. Story telling was good with slight weakness but overall a solid great movie well recommended.

I believe Heretic places us at 62 reviews for 2024 thus far and well on track for 75 reviews this year. Initially intended to reach 50 however 75 is in reach and I’m ready to go.

Some upcoming movies I’m looking forward to are:

Anora (Coming Sunday/Monday) | Red One | Gladiator 2 | Wicked | Moana 2

Y2K | Kraven | Lord of the Rings | Sonic 3 | A Complete Unknown | Nosferatu

Possible movies to hit 75: Mufasa | Babygirl | ? Something Unexpected ? |

Thank you all for coming by Popped.blog for movie reviews. Appreciate all those taking the time to like and subscribe. In the coming weeks I should have a link posted for the either audio / visual podcast – Still deciding :D.

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The Best Christmas Pageant Ever “Review”

Release date: November 8, 2024 (USA)

Director: Dallas Jenkins

Distributed by: Lionsgate Films

Based on: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; by Barbara Robinson

Narrated by: Lauren Graham

Produced by: Kevin Downes; Jon Erwin; Andrew Erwin; Darin McDaniel; Chet Thomas; Daryl Lefever

Welcome to the latest batch of Popped “Reviews” fellow movie-going lovers. Today bringing you The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and up next Conclave.

Big shout out to Harkins for showing this “The Best Early Access Screening”. Glad I was in the area to catch it because I may very well have a new seasonal movie to play :D.

This isn’t usually a movie I’d check out and another reason, which I’ve mentioned before. Why I love watching so many movies this year. I get to see movies I may have skipped, which are honestly really good.

Instantly I fell in love with this movie due to a family of children called the Herdmans. While setting up to write this “Review” I found out this is a series of 3 books, so I’m really hoping for 2 sequels :D.

All the children did an excellent job in this movie, especially Beatrice Schneider, who played Imogene Herdman. She was fantastic and I really connected with this group of kids. Honestly, I’m a sap when it comes to movies like this where characters are made as outcasts or treated differently to others. I really bond and connect with films of this nature.

The Herdmans experiencing a Christmas Story for the first time was done in such a refreshing way that even I became interested.

It’s based on a book of the same title name. However, to avoid spoilers for those like myself going in blind or just seeing the trailer. This feature is based around a town celebrating the 75th anniversary of their Christmas pageant.

After the lead of the pageant getting into an accident, its up to one of our main adult leads Grace, played by Judy Greer to take the reins. Our little group of outcasted Herdmans get themselves into the pageant and from there enjoy this experience.

It was heartwarming and got me in the feels. It’s not Wild Robot but it belongs in the season and a must-watch for families or those wanting a good time. I’d watch this seasonally which easily gets it in the 8/10 great movies ranking.

I appreciate you coming by Popped for this “Review” of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Have you seen it or plan on watching it? I’d love to hear your thoughts below.

Stick around to see a “Review” on Conclave. Or take a nap which I ended up doing throughout.

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Here “Review”

Release date: November 1, 2024 (USA)

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Distributed by: TriStar Pictures

Based on: Here; by Richard McGuire

Box office: $475,000

Budget: $50 million

I’m glad the coin landed heads 3/5 times because this movie was an experience. I usually avoid reviews before watching a movie. This time however I saw a 1/5 from the guardian pop up on my feed.

With that in my mind it led to the coin flip to determine if I go or not.

I’m glad I did, however I totally get why this wouldn’t hit for all.

Sometimes I watch a film and get up against a wall on what to write first and how. So I’m glad I could be present here to watch and be apart of so many individual stories throughout an hour and 40minutes.

If you have loved ones or those you’re close to then this movie maybe for you. So many moments and scenes that hit home and makes you appreciate or shine light on appreciating moments with family and loved ones. Make the most from life and try not push things off as you may never get back round to them.

It sure is crazy how time fly’s isn’t it. What a time for Here to arrive at the first day of NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). An event that occurs once every year, running through the entirety of November for writers to achieve the goal of writing 50k words.

Here takes place within one still frame throughout time from the dinosaurs to present time. Sometimes there’s stories that I find hard to fit within this story as I have no idea what connects them with the films entirety.

Mostly though you’re going back and forth between times, even blending time periods together throughout the movie. I loved the use of picture within picture as it brought a cool and engaging affect for transitions between scenes and time periods.

The main story being told is across the time of Tom Hanks character Richard Young’s life from his parents moving in to the final chapter of Richard & Margaret Young played by Robin Wright.

As I’m writing I’m seeing a lot of 1/5 reviews which seem to be hitting on the fact that there’s to many stories being told and the disconnect between a few of them.

I wouldn’t hit it that harsh but I can see this being above average. That being said for me personally I give it a 7/10 for the simple fact that the messages being told and the current events in my life occurring, echoed a lot in the movie and it warmed my heart.

Take it as a 6-7 range if you’re on the fence. Love to hear your thoughts on this title. For tomorrow’s batch I’ll be checking out Conclave & The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.

Anime links will popup soon however I plan to start that at the beginning of 2025. So have any recommendations for new anime in 2025 drop them in the comments.

Thank you all for coming by and spending time here at popped. Blog I greatly appreciate you all and I’m excited to see what’s to come in 2025.

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