13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi

4 out of 5 Stars

13 Hours, the latest film directed by Michael Bay, recounts the real life events that occurred in Libya in 2012 when a small group of soldiers are sent on tour to a top secret CIA base and the 13 hours they experience attempting to rescue an American Ambassador and defend the CIA compound. Beginning with the set up of the primary soldiers, the film later moves into the main conflict.

For quite some time I've really been disappointed in anything Michael Bay has directed or produced. I think there was a point when he came out with a few good films early on in his career but not so much in the past decade. 13 Hours, however, is return to quality for Michael Bay. That isn't to say that his hand can't still be seen in it. There are still plenty of explosions and the extremely fast paced editing he is known for remains in tack. But in this situation it works well as the film takes us from the down time all the way into the chaos of war. And the chaos feels so real in this film that at some points it is almost a little confusing what's happening and who's where. This could be considered a pitfall for a film but considering the nature of battle I think that it works splendidly.

Truly where the film surprises, though, is through John Krasinski. He has come a long way from the office and shows his gravitas as an actor in this film. There wasn't a moment I didn't believe him as a soldier. This is Krasinski as Jack Silva in the same way Bradley Cooper embodied Chris Kyle. They stepped into the shoes of a soldier and lived them in both the world at war and with family at home. With Krasinki's final moments in the film it's hard not to be moved.

This was a film that really hit me deep down as an Army veteran myself and stuck with me emotionally well after the movie ended. It got me to think about life and tugged at my emotions. It's intense and at times graphic (as war is) and not for everybody. But if anything, it was a film that I felt did justice to a lesser known conflict that occurred and the brave men who fought for their brothers.

What Maisie Knew

4 out of 5 Stars

A tragic and beautiful film.

What Maisie Knew follows a little girl through her parents divorce and the tragic self-centered lives they live and how it effects their child. Focused entirely from the perspective of Maisie, the story unfolds as the little girl is used by the adults around her in a story that is awesome painful to watch.

The film does what a lot of films don't even attempt: to see life through the eyes of a child. In this instance it's a portrait that is occasionally beautiful and often tragic. Both of Maisie's parents are far from perfect and both highly incapable of being responsible enough to care for their child. In the midst of the custody battle Maisie is almost thrown around like a rag doll, watching and uncertain what she is supposed to do and confused about what is happening. It's hard not to feel for her as her parent's actions lead to many negative consequences that neither of them seem to notice.

I've really never seen such an amazing portrayal of the effect two parent's life decisions can have on their child. There are ramifications for our actions and in this story the results are difficult to watch. The portrayal of life is so genuine and fierce that it's difficult not to be invested in the lives of the characters. The performances are brought to life surrounding the subtle expression and reactions of the young lead. There really is not a film quite like it that I have seen.

This is a touching and important story in a society where divorce is normal and what it means to truly love a child. It is heartbreaking but the uplifting ending warrants a watch even if you aren't one for a more melancholy film.

Star Wars Episode VII - The Force Awakens

4 out of 5 Stars

The latest installment of the Star Wars comes to us outside of the hands of George Lucas for the first time ever and the wait has well been worth it. There is still no denying that without George Lucas we wouldn't have any of the Star Wars films. There is a unique universe that has been crafted in the films that isn't quite like any other. With a mix of sci-fi and fantasy, Star Wars has captivated the minds of millions for generations and now J.J. Abrams has brought a film for a new generation that does justice to the Star Wars universe.

Plot wise the film is nothing new. All the elements are similar to the original Star Wars but enhanced and done very well. With a new villain and a female lead as the hero, this is a film that has been much needed. The characters are solid and chemistry on screen is absolutely wonderful. Abrams has also managed to hit the nostalgic spot for all those who have loved Star Wars for generations by bringing in little moments that throwback to previous films.

Truly, Abrams has crafted a film that can link both generations new and old into a world that we could have only dreamed of. As a fanboy myself (even more so growing up) I found this to be everything I wanted in a Star Wars movie. At the same time as a stand alone movie I think it's harder to argue how great it is. But I wasn't looking for the next Godfather or Citizen Kane. I was looking for Star Wars, good Star Wars. And that is what I believe you good.

It's a good time. A fun ride. And worth watching more than once.