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What I Loved in 2020 in Movies

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In 2020, as I stated in my previous article, I consumed more media than I have in I don’t know how long. The thing was as far as movies go, not many were new for the year. Consequently, my favorite films were a good combination of films that were new to me, regardless of release date, revisiting classic favorites, and re-watching some films I’d seen but could barely remember.

Without a doubt my favorite new film I watched in 2020 was Netflix’s Enola Holmes with Millie Bobby Brown as the exceedingly clever and effervescent younger sister of the famed detective Sherlock, played by the equally talented Henry Cavill, who portrays the character at an early stage in his career with subtlety, warmth, sternness and eventual humility. There’s also Sam Clafin whose excellent as their haughty and no nonsense and bitter Mycroft, the wonderful Helena Bingham Carter as their unpredictable mother who goes missing and Louis Partridge as the sweet young man Lord Tewksbury whom Enola meets and becomes entangled in a plot that involves deceit and murder. But Brown truly is the shining star in this story that is exciting, mysterious, and charming, with a fun style that often involves breaking the fourth wall and speaking directly to the audience. Moreover we see a feminist approach to the period genre which is usually dominated by male protagonists showcasing how this young woman navigates a world that wants to only stifle her. If you enjoyed the humor and style of the Sherlock Holmes films with Robert Downey Jr. but also appreciate something a bit lighter, you’ll love Enola Holmes with it’s exceptional performances, rich production design and costumes and lively story. I LOVED THIS MOVIE!!

As far as 2020 releases go, the only other film I saw was one I thoroughly enjoyed: Netflix’s remake of Alfred Hitchcock’s, and Daphne De Maurier’s Rebecca. Although the original handles the tone and tense nature of the book better and overall is a better film, I still loved this remake. The casting is spot on and superb, and the production value beautiful with glorious European scenery and an appropriately vast and gothic manor in Maxim DeWinter’s estate Manderlay. This edifice has the proper mysterious and haunting beauty that transcends into the performances as the truth of what happened to Rebecca unfolds. Although we never truly feel the claustrophobic tension of the original, Lily James, Armie Hammer and Kristin Scott Thomas still capture the essence of these characters extremely well. It’s a most worthwhile film.

Although they weren’t released in 2020, there were some big releases I finally had the opportunity to watch. My favorite of these particular “new to me” films was undoubtedly Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker. I’ve since learned reactions to be varied and divisive but I absolutely loved every minute of the conclusion of the Skywalker Saga, from the inspired journey for Rey, to finally seeing Rey, Finn and Poe on an adventure together, to the redemption of Kylo Ren, to the appearances of the legacy and legendary characters Luke, Leia, Han, Lando and others and finally to the epic battles for the fate of the galaxy and the souls of the characters. I really loved this new trilogy and the way the story captured and often mirrored the original trilogy’s story beats and essence, while offering something new especially with Rey’s character- a girl who found her family and place in the world and the Star Wars legacy as a shining symbol of these space adventure’s most timeless theme: hope.

On the Disney side of things, I really loved returning to Arendelle in Frozen 2, which offered up much of the same delightful and poignant character beats and transcending songs, along with truly breathtaking animation. The standouts were most definitely Elsa’s powerhouse extraordinary songs “Into the Unknown” and “Show Yourself” as well as Anna’s “The Next Right Thing” with all three being gorgeous and truly inspirational moments whose meaning are profound and can be emblems of motivation, finding your true self, courage, self love and peace. Although I liked the original better, this was a truly beautiful film.

I also thoroughly enjoyed Dumbo, which added upon the story of the original film with touching and thought provoking results, and a style and colorful way that Tim Burton does so masterfully. It shows us the power of believing in yourself no matter what, while also being a strong animal rights proponent showcasing the majestic nature of elephants and the beautiful animals they are.

As someone who loves Christmas movies, I was so happy that the new films I watched this year were also some of my overall favorite movie experiences for 2020. The Kurt Russell led Christmas Chronicles and its sequel were creative, colorful, heartfelt and hilarious with sweet stories and characters that brought something new to the a story that’s been depicted countless times with Santa and the North Pole, while also bringing us traditional warm and fuzzy emotions. Last Christmas was a sort of modern version of The Bishop’s Wife with an emotionally resonant heart that left me in tears and despite guessing where the story was going. Whether it was surprising or not, it still was a lovely and inspired look at living your life to the fullest with kindness, belief in yourself and the reminder to always look up. These films will definitely be on my movie watching list every year.

The Chris Evans directed Before I Go was a dreamy and romantic look at how one night between two strangers can be life changing. It was sweet, surprising poignant and a fine directorial debut for Evans. Game Night, a sort of adventure, comedy, mystery, was not only way better than I expected, but genuinely hilarious, full of unexpected twists and a bona fide edge of your seat flick with an excellent cast.

Two Dwayne Johnson led films thoroughly entertained me- the sweet and poignant The Game Plan about a professional football player who just learns he has a daughter was heartwarming with a surprising twist and just the right amount of corniness. Similarly, Jumangi: Welcome to the Jungle was so much funnier and entertaining than I anticipated it would be. Perhaps it’s because of my love of the original that I didn’t expect much but the film was brought into the modern era with humor and a surprising amount of heart.

The period drama fantasies From Time to Time and The Secret of Moon Acre were my most surprising watches. I had not heard of either but they were both lovely little films that showcase the importance of faith, forgiveness, acceptance and love with the former surely being a film for any fan of Downton Abbey as it’s helmed by creator Julian Fellowes and featuring several cast members. Both PG family friendly films are delightful.

I also loved two family friendly comedies. Troop Zero is about a group of misfits in the 1970s trying to win the Girl Scout esque contest so they can be included on a recording that will be broadcast into space. It was funny, quirky and makes you route for these determined children who may not be in the “in crowd” but whose uniqueness makes them all the better for it. Instant Family was also a thoughtful and eye opening look at the Foster Care system as a couple decides they want to foster and eventually adopt 3 siblings instead of one child, and have to deal with all the struggles and misadventures that comes with the territory. It’s played for laughs mostly but the poignant moments hit you right in the heart.

The Liam Neeson thriller starter pack as I am calling it took a two day period in 2020 with four films that all have a similar feel that Neeson has carved out for himself the past decade, most notably in Taken. But it was three others that enjoyed more. Unknown is the most mysterious and will keep you wondering what exactly is going on with a man whose life had been taken over by another, with his own wife denying his identity. Non-Stop is the most heart pounding and emotional as an Air Marshal tries to detect a threat to the lives of an entire flight of passengers. The Commuter is the most thought provoking as it begs the question- would you do even the unthinkable for the right price?

Ocean’s 8 was a fun caper and worthy continuation of the series featuring an all female team up consisting of a stellar cast including Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Sarah Paulson, Rhianna, Awkwafina, Helena Bonham Carter and Mindy Kaling. It’s stylish, fun with a few clever twists. Speaking of wonderful women, in the biopic Judy, Renee Zellweger captures the renowned Judy Garland’s voice, mannerisms and tragic demons. Judy is a sad and beautiful and heartbreaking look at the iconic entertainer.

Lastly, I was happy to finally see a film from one of my favorite actresses Audrey Hepburn. Wait Until Dark was tense and exceptionally performed as Hepburn must deal with ruthless thieves and murderers when she inadvertently gets caught up in their intrigues with one, in this case, disadvantage- she is blind. But when she turns this around and uses this to her advantage, she turns the tables into heart pounding and thrilling moments.

My other movie habits for 2020 included revisiting favorites and watching films I had seen but didn’t remember well. For the former I indulged in my favorites from 2019: the epic and brilliant MCU culmination Avengers: Endgame, the fantastic Captain Marvel, delightful reimagining Aladdin and the superb mystery Knives Out.

I revisited Woody Allen’s charming Magic in the Moonlight, a beautiful and breezy 1920s romp about magicians, mystics and charlatans in the champagne soaked and luminous French countryside. The Adjustment Bureau combines destined love, drama and science fiction in a unique and captivating way. The hilarious, stylish quick paced Leatherheads is reminiscent of 1940s screwball comedies with witty dialogue, a rousing score and incredible cast. And Hail Caesar is another look at classic Hollywood which is an equal part glamorous, realistic and interesting way of exposing the underbelly of tinsel town with equally dazzling and nostalgic homages to such actors as Esther Williams and Gene Kelly.

Finally, I took great joy in re-watching a childhood, and indeed all time time favorite movie of mine in a new way. I was beyond happy to see that Shout Factory released a special Blu-ray of The Wizard featuring over 30 minutes of deleted scenes and never before seen footage, an entertaining and informative audio commentary and beautiful and crisp 4K transfer. This film is so much more than the “Nintendo movie” and it was such fun revisiting it. You can read a more in depth review I did of the film on The Nerd Machine here: Rediscovering a Classic: The Wizard

As far as other films I watched the list is extensive:

Who Framed Roger Rabbit
We Have Always Lived in the Castle
Legally Blonde
Win a Date With Tad Hamilton
Age of Adaline
The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes
The Ugly Dachshund
Miss Congeniality
Charade
The Rocketeer
Hidalgo
Murder on the Orient Express
Gosford Park
Second Act
The Blind Side
Playing it Cool
Sweet Home Alabama
Penelope
Secondhand Lions
Center Stage
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Vivacious Lady
On Moonlight Bay
Akeelah and the Bee
Fools Rush In
Something New
P.S. I Love You
One Fine Day
Scoop
The Skeleton Key
Red
Winchester
Arsenic and Old Lace
The Village
Secret Window
The Woman in Black
Clue
The Burbs
Midnight Lace
The Birds
Three Men and a Baby
Three Men and a Little Lady
Dial M for Murder
Rear Window
The Lake House
Speed
The Net
Red Eye
Taken 2
Phantom of the Opera
Mirror Mirror
Morning Glory
Now and Then
About Time
Angel Eyes
Only You
Ocean’s 11
Ocean’s 13
Sun Dogs
Thrill of a Romance
Leave Her to Heaven
Angel in the Outfield
Night Must Fall
Pillow Talk
Spider-Man Trilogy
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Operation Dumbo Drop
The Mummy
The Mummy Returns
Apollo 13
The Notebook
Howard
A League of Their Own
How Do You Know
He’s Just Not that Into You
Raising Helen
Something’s Gotta Give
Guarding Tess
Double Jeopardy
Laws of Attraction
Good News
Bewitched
Noelle
Poseidon
War Games
Stay Tuned
Pay the Ghost
Adrift
Sulley
Swiss Family Robinson
Enchanted
Chicago
Blast from the Past
A Christmas Story
Home Alone
Home Alone 2
Christmas in Connecticut
Miracle on 34th Street
The Santa Clause
Elf
White Christmas
Holiday Affair
The Bishop’s Wife
All I Want for Christmas
Fred Claus
Come to the Stable

What were you favorite films you watched in 2020 Let me know in the comments!

Aladdin (2019) Film Review

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When it comes to the live action remakes of Disney’s animated classics, the results most definitely vary. For me, some are absolutely enchanting (Cinderella), while others are middling and underwhelming (Maleficent). When it comes to Aladdin, I will be honest and say I was extremely nervous to see this movie. Not only does the 1992 Aladdin rank at number 4 in my list of favorite animated films, but the trailers left a lot to be desired and felt somewhat off and disjointed. It’s puzzling how the trailers did not do the film justice, but it just goes to show you how significant context is. Those fears were not only put to rest, but absolutely vanished and replaced with sheer delight and overall love. Indeed, much like the classic song we are treated to a shining, shimmering, splendid film that is infused just the right amount of nostalgia and feel of the original, while also adding some wonderful and rich new story beats, character enhancements, and music. Aladdin is a visually sumptuous, funny, and heartfelt retelling of the classic story that soared right into my heart.

Casting/Performances & Story/Character Enhancements

When it comes to any film, but especially in these Disney remakes, casting, and in turn performances, plays a crucial role in the overall quality of the film. And one of Aladdin’s finest attributes is indeed its cast. Mena Massoud is a brilliant and perfect Aladdin. He’s charming, funny and earnest with a dynamic energy and dazzling smile to match. He was able to make Aladdin’s agility look natural and believable, and his journey of self discovery that his strength of character was always there really touching. Naomi Scott’s Jasmine is equally terrific, infusing the feisty princess with heart, compassion, strength and an intelligence that comes from inherent nobility and desire to truly help her people. Individually, they are fantastic. Together they are equally wonderful with significantly more screen time together which added some lovely depth to their relationship, and showcased a natural, sweet, romantic chemistry that helps makes Aladdin and Jasmine remain of Disney’s greatest couples.

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Of course, a great deal of the film’s success rests on Will Smith’s Genie’s shoulders, and is undoubtedly who audiences were anticipating the most. No one can ever replace or replicate Robin Williams. What he created was unique, brilliant and beloved. But Smith truly brought his own amazing spin to the character. He brought a great deal of charm, sweetness and humor, and with the music a hip hop flair that he is not only known for but does exceedingly well. He was charismatic, but also at times profound and importantly very human. And that may be one of the best things Smith brought to the role. Instead of trying to replicate the larger than life portrayal by Williams, this Genie is more grounded, which not only felt appropriate but was undeniably likable. And like the original, the friendship between Aladdin and Genie is poignant and the cornerstone to the film’s themes, and the chemistry between both actors is terrific. I’m going out on a limb here and saying that this may be my favorite role Will Smith has ever done.

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The more human and grounded qualities in the other cast members and characters, as well as the story additions and changes are also what made the film work so well. What works in an animated film may not always translate or work in a live action one. Moreover, it’s important to distinguish it from its predecessor and add the necessary story beats needed for a new and longer live action film. In Aladdin’s case, these changes felt necessary and were executed beautifully. Jafar for example is an amazing villain in the animated version, but mostly a mustache twirling, over the top kind of villain whose evilness is obvious. That is great and works perfectly in an animated film. But I loved what they did with this new version of Jafar, who is younger, handsome and much more subdued. Marwan Kenzari grounds the character and showcases that villainy not only can come from a place of hardship but also that evil may not always look as such. It can be simmering under a surface that can be very attractive and persuasive. Honestly, much like they did with Gaston’s character in Beauty and Beast it’s important to portray villains in this realistic way. The same can be said for the Sultan (Navid Negahban), who is more reverent and realistic rather than goofy, as well as the animal characters of Abu, Iago and Rajah. There is obviously still the fantastical element about them but they feel closer to reality and in turn perfectly blended into the story. I smiled whenever they were on screen. Moreover, some other character and story additions that I absolutely loved were Jasmine’s hand maiden Dalia (Nasim Pedrad) who was sweet, funny and gave Jasmine a true friend and another scene partner that added real humor and heart. Some other changes were made at the climax and conclusion to the story that I won’t spoil, but they were refreshing, added dynamic action, and meaningful messages that a modern audience will certainly appreciate.

Direction and Visuals

I am a fan of many of Guy Ritchie’s films and his signature style. Aladdin is a much brighter and happier story than his usual fare but he was still able to bring his moments of slowed down or sped up film that is his trademark in some of the dancing and action sequences that I comes to expect from his work. This may be off putting or odd to some, especially if unfamiliar that this is Ritchie’s trademark visual that he always employs. I personally find it fun, but it may not be for some viewers. In addition to the direction, indeed all of the visuals are sumptuous and wondrous, from the rich and colorful costumes and sets to the sweeping camera work. These truly are an artistic feast that are both similar to the original but something entirely different and often as magnificent as what we saw in Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast. And while the blue version of the Genie is still a bit jarring on first glance, you quickly get used to it and are simply looking at the character.

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Music and Songs

If I were to rank my favorite Disney soundtracks, 1992’s Aladdin is tied for the top spot with The Little Mermaid, so there was certainly a great deal to live up to with these new versions of the songs and score. All of the songs that we love are included and are brought to life with amazing and fresh takes and a different but wonderful energy. It’s difficult to actually choose a favorite, but “Friend Like Me,” which was already so fun and colorful in the original, has the same kind of fun flair and new hip hop vibe, also found in “Prince Ali,” which is slower, but drawn out in a way that almost felt necessary with the changes to Genie’s character. There is definitely a vibrant Bollywood influence to this number, while “One Jump Ahead” is just fun and gives added interaction between Aladdin and Jasmine. “A Whole New World,” which is my favorite Disney song, perhaps may not soar as high as the original, but at the same time, it’s almost impossible to do so. What is does do a give us a beautiful new version on this romantic scene. And I loved it vocally, orchestra wise, and visually with new locals the couple flies throughout and a lovely depiction of their inherent and natural chemistry. The new song “Speechless,” which is a anthem of strength given to Jasmine’s character, is a great song and moment for her arc. However, it’s inclusion, which is sung in a dream like sequence, and songwriters are La La Land and The Greatest Showman’s Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, instead of one of Menken’s other collaborators feels a bit disconnected and decidedly different from the rest of the songs. Is the song great? Yes, indeed it is. But its style does feel like a Paul and Pasek song as opposed to a Menken song.

Lastly, what is truly remarkable is that Menken composed new versions of his Aladdin themes and motifs as well as all new orchestrations for the entirely of the film, all of which are magnificent. They are deep, rich, and gorgeous and profoundly demonstrate what we already knew- that that Menken is not only a living legend for his body of work, but can still compose equally brilliant new musical scores. Menken should be revered in the same breath as such illustrious composers as John Williams and Hans Zimmer.

Final Thoughts

If you are debating whether to see this new version of Disney’s Aladdin, especially if you are a tremendous fan of the original or not always sure about live action remakes, I cannot recommend this film enough. Currently, for me this Aladdin ranks just below 2015’s Cinderella, but another viewing may move that to a tie for the top spot. Regardless, what I do know is that despite trepidation Aladdin proved to be a funny, effervescent, colorful and heartfelt diamond in the rough.

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