'Daredevil' Season 2 Trailer Gives Us Our First Look At Jon Bernthal's Punisher and Élodie Yung's Elektra

With the recent success of Fox's Deadpool giving sudden attention to darker and edgier comic book properties, there was no better time for Marvel to release their trailer for the second season of Daredevil. As many fans know by now, the second season is taking a note from this year's trend of having two superheroes team up against each other (See Batman v. Superman and Civil War), in this case being our titular hero and The Punisher (Jon Bernthal). Not only does this trailer give us our first look a Frank Castle, but also a peak at fan favorite Elektra (Élodie Yung).

Below is the first full trailer for season 2 of Daredevil:

Marvel has made it pretty clear that they aren't afraid to go dark with their Netflix shows, and this trailer reiterates that even more. The success of the show's first season was able to prove to many the Marvel Cinematic Universe has a darker side, and they've made it just as marketable as their family friendly films. While Jessica Jones didn't fare as well as Daredevil did ratings wise, it too was generally well received by viewers and fans alike. The choice to go with Punisher as the next season's villain is certainly and intriguing one, and is a decision that definitely keep people interested in the next season (If they weren't already).

The inclusion of Frank Castle will give the character a great introduction to the MCU, without giving him his own solo series or film just yet. Judging by the trailer, it seems that the dynamic between Castle and Murdock will be a major point of emphasis. Rather than going with a clear cut villain such as last season's Kingpin; or a character like Bullseye from the comics, Punisher sees himself as doing good and seeking vengeance for his dead family. Yung's Elektra will also most likely serve as a similar figure to Matt, as someone whose methods he won't exactly be seeing eye to eye with.

There's still a lot in the air about what could happen this season, including what other characters may be showing up that we don't know about yet (Fingers crossed for Bullseye), or how the show will connect to eventual Defenders team up. There's always the possibility of MCU characters showing up including Jessica Jones and Luke Cage, or even fellow New Yorker Spider-Man (Now played by Tom Holland). The showrunners are probably keeping much more surprises in store for fans that we won't be seeing until the show hits March 18th.

So what did you think of the Daredevil Season 2 trailer? Are you excited to see Murdock and Castle duke it out? Let us know below!

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Review: Hateful Eight, Django but Chained

A film that was nearly scrapped by director Quentin Tarantino is both a fun time at the movie theater, yet just doesn't feel as fantastic as it was claimed to be. A well cut out story falls apart when it needs to define itself the most, and a plot twist that was as vaguely awkward as it gets.

Director Quentin Tarantino (Django Unchained) is back with a 70mm camera and a story that starts out as a "Who Dunn It in the Old West" and then evolves into a traditional Quentin Tarantino film. The cast is comprised of Samuel L. Jackson (Marvel's The Avengers), Kurt Russel (Furious 7), Jennifer Jason Leigh, Channing Tatum (Magic Mike), Tim Roth (The Incredible Hulk), Walton Goggins ( Justified), Bruce Dern (Nebraska), all of which do a solid job at conveying their roles.



The plot consist of Samuel L. Jackson's Major Marquis Warren being stranded due to a arriving blizzard and receiving a ride to a travelers lodge from Kurt Russell's John "The Hang Man"Ruth. Upon arriving at the lodge, the film turns into a mystery of what happened to Minnie, the owner of the lodge, as well as who is in association with Jennifer Jason Leigh, and trying to get her free. The films major connection with the audience is trying to convey which individuals are involved and which are innocent bystanders. The is film is broken into six chapters and has the fifth chapter serve as the big reveal for the film.



In essence the film is over done in the style of Tarantino at the very most and almost spoils the good taste of the film.The film felt as though Django was taken and smothered in Tarantino sauce once again, when it didn't have to be, doubling the gore, sexual jokes, mistreatment of women, and a whole lot of bloody gun play and you have The Hateful Eight. The cinematography does do the film justice in a widescreen scenario but at the same time the film feels better justified as a play.

In Django Unchained (A film that will constantly be referenced in comparison), the audience roots for Django to find freedom and rescue the love of his life. Yet in comparison, The Hateful Eight does not know who exactly they want the audience to root for at this point. The film attempts to rotate the audiences respect between each character and attempts to have us develop their motives for saving the captive, Yet this is where the film fails because most of the characters seem one dimensional and each feels as though they were barely explored in depth

It is sad to say that the film does nothing to develop the world of The Hateful Eight, only to give us a glimpse of what the character holds through dialogue that reveals minimal back story, that is almost pointless when you are trying to figure out who is lying among them.



Ambitious and enjoyable, yet not a memorable and ground breaking film that it attempted to be. Just like how it split audiences down the middle,

Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight shoots its way to a 2.5 out of 5 stars

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Review: 'Chi-Raq', Spike Lee Doesn't Do The Right Thing

In the year 2015, gun violence and African American culture is a topic in which is heavily being expressed through both the news and social media. Director Spike Lee sought to express this idea through a film to describe the outcries of the time in a highly stylized film, and ultimately the result is a mess. Instead of creating a timeless films expressing the struggles in the struggling communities of Chicago, we were delivered a film that simply assimilates all the problems of the time and puts it in a 2 hr film.

Teyonah Parris(Dear White People),Samuel Jackson (Hateful 8), Nick Cannon(Drumline), Jennifer Hudson (Dream Girls) ,Wesley Snipes (Blade), John Cusack (Love and Mercy) , Angela Basset (American Horror Story), Dave Chapelle (The Chapelle Show) are a cast assembled by Director Spike Lee is so convoluted that is beyond recognition. Beyond Teyonah Parris , everyone else in the film feels as though Spike Lee was filming and called up some friends who weren't busy on his contact list. The dialogue is a satirical musical drama which is the worst possible choice for a film like this which needs to create the clearest possible message which is....

This leads to the second biggest problem with the film which is trying to figure out the problem in which the film is trying to address. The plot revolves around Teyonah Parris character attempting to solve gun violence in Chicago by having the women of two clashing gangs by refusing to have sex as long as gun violence is present. The film from there is smothered with dialogue utilizing sexual innuendos that feel off or outdated. A lot of scenes could've been broadened upon, while others could've been drastically cut.

For the first time in a long time, I feel as though no performances in this film moved me or made me seek out change in the community. The film was tedious and made it difficult to watch as serious
moments were cluttered by what seemed to be jokes thrown in by the cast.

In a time where a serious film that demands change is needed, a film like Chi- Raq attempts to make a difference without being blatantly clear on what its trying to say. Without a clear voice the film feels as though it is just another lost whisper against the ever growing sounds of gun violence reigning through the U.S. Spike Lee has delivered some timeless classics filled with emotion and creativity, yet I am not sure this was the film appropriate to try and do the same.

Chi- Raq earns a 1 out of 5 stars

What did you think of Chi-Raq? Let Us Know

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Review: 'The Revenant' Brings Story Telling Back From The Dead

In a era where films use explosions and gun fire in order to attract audiences, The Revenant uses old fashion story telling in order to provide a great thrill that you don't often see in cinemas. Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, who also directed one of 2014's most creative films, Birdman. The Revenant stars Leonardo DiCaprio (The Wolf of Wall Street, Inception), Tom Hardy (Legend), Will Poulter (The Maze Runner), and Domhnall Gleeson (Ex Machina, Star Wars: The Force Awakens), all of which I would say deliver standout performances.

The plot of the film revolves around a group of frontiersman who were pushed away from the settlement, from here we watch DiCaprio take lead battling Nature, the elements, other Frontiersmen, Native Americans, and the harsh reality of the world surrounding him.

To say the least, Leonardo DiCaprio did the up most possible in order to convey a convincing Hugh Glass through the various events in which he faces. Dialogue is key, but more of the body language conveyed as well as the little things that DiCaprio does in the film help form a convincing character to the audience.

Through out the film Tom Hardy also gives a great performance as a disturbing John Fitzgerald , a frontiersman who was partially scalped by Native Americans, and holds a chip on his shoulder for anything that doesn't involve money. To say the least, the cast was phenomenal throughout the film.

A big key factor that also makes this film one of the best is the cinematography. The principal filming was initially suppose to take place in Canada, yet due to weather circumstances, and the purpose of green screens seeming too unrealistic, the filming moved its location. Instead they used places such as Argentina, parts of the United States, and British Columbia, all of which are seamless when looking at the transition between sets. 

The subtle looks upon nature as well as the score composed by Japanese artist Ryuichi Sakamoto in addition to Bryce Dessner help convey the grand nature of the film truly making it a standout. This film is definitely a film worth watching in IMAX in order to get the full effect of the film.

A film that exploits the danger of nature and the harsh frontiers of the 1800's, with Leonardo DiCaprio displaying why he is one of the all time greatest actors, The Revenant is one of the must see films of the new year.

I give The Revenant 5 out of 5 stars:

Let us know what you think of the Revenant?

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Review: Ridley Scott's 'The Martian' Teaches Us To Never Doubt the Knowledge of a Botanist

Films about space exploration and mishaps in the farthest regions of the galaxy have become a bit of a trend in Hollywood lately. Some of the today’s most acclaimed directors such as Alfonso Cuaron (Gravity), Christopher Nolan (Interstellar), and Duncan Jones (Moon) have taken a crack at the genre, so it was only a matter of time before Ridley Scott (Alien) himself gave it a shot. With The Martian, Scott takes a break from the usual science fiction extraterrestrial films he’s known for, and tackles a much more grounded and realistic space adventure story. The result is a captivating film that sports a cast who bring their characters to life, along with a story that is packed in suspense and never offers a dull moment.

The film follows the crew of the Ares III; a team of astronauts who are ready to set back home after their mission to mars. But just prior to leaving, a storm hits leading the crew to believe that one of their members; botanist Mark Watney (Matt Damon), was killed during the storm. It isn’t until once the Ares III has departed that it is revealed Watney did in fact survive the storm, and has now been left alone to fend for himself on the deserted planet of Mars.

Every time there is a film that follows a person on their own or stranded in a place without any other humans, there’s always a risk that film’s narrative me be boring or not captivating enough for the audience. There’s also a tremendous amount of pressure on whatever actor is playing the title role, as they have to practically carry most of the film on their own. In The Martian’s case, that responsibility falls onto Matt Damon, along with screenwriter Drew Goddard (Cabin in the Woods). Both Damon and Goddard do a fantastic job at making Watney into an entertaining and relatable character whose eyes we are able to see the film’s events through.

While it may have seemed like the film was going to be two hours of Matt Damon alone on Mars, Scott keeps the audience’s attention but constantly cutting back to what is taking place back on Earth. Watney may be the most developed character in the film, but several other supporting players get their time to shine, and are portrayed fantastically by some familiar faces. Standouts include Jeff Daniels (Newsroom) as the NASA director, Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave) as the man in charge of the Mars mission, and Sean Bean (Lord of the Rings) as a fellow head employee for NASA. Every character introduced in the film serves a purpose, and adds something extra to the flow of the film’s story. The dialogue between these characters was especially impressive, with some witty remarks reminiscent of that of Aaron Sorkin (The Social Network).

But the real stars of the show here are the crew of the Ares III themselves, who all really provide the emotional anchor of the film. While a majority of the film is seen through Watney’s eyes as we experience his emotions, seeing the psychological effects of leaving a crewmember through his fellow astronauts adds an entirely new layer to the film. Michael Pena, Jessica Chastain, and Kate Mara specifically stand out, and share some great scenes alongside each other. Although it would’ve be nice to have had more screen time between these characters and Watney himself prior to them leaving, we’re giving a good idea of their personalities and what their relationships with Watney were like through some great dialogue scenes.

The soundtrack of the film was another surprising standout, and really helped give the film its own identity. The film’s score is definitely a lot more lighthearted than expected for a film about a guy left alone on Mars. This actually suits the movie well, and is a great reflection of Watney’s optimism throughout the story. There is also a great amount of 70s music in the throughout, which is a running gag in film. Those who are fans of disco music will really enjoy it, while those who aren’t will feel Watney’s pain.

In this day and age where space adventure films are a dime a dozen, and each film is trying to reach a further region of space than the last, The Martian is a breathe of fresh air. Everything about the film from its visuals and its beautiful use of colors, the avoidance of clichés, down to the spectacular cast that was assembled all really help it stand out from its predecessors in the genre. The Martian is a return to form for Ridley Scott, as well as another brilliantly acted film led by Matt Damon himself, and is sure to be a contender for an Oscar in visual effects next year. Those who are looking for a grounded space film that isn’t named Star Wars or Star Trek should look no further than this brilliant take on the future of human space travel. 

I give The Martian 4 out of 5 stars:

So have you see The Martian? What did you think of it? Let us know below!

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Fan-Cast: Samurai Jack

 

If you grew up in the early 2000s, chances are the name Samurai Jack will ring a bell to you, as it was one of the most popular and advanced cartoons of its time. But like many cartoons, the show didn't get to complete the narrative it wanted to tell, and that has led to a lot of speculation about the show either returning or getting a feature length film in theaters. Given how amazing the story told in the show is, I personally think it'd be great to see it adapted into live action. So below I've put together some of my own suggestions for a big screen adaption of the Cartoon Network series Samurai Jack.

Joe Taslim (Raid Redemption) as Samurai Jack

The Raid Redemption film,showcased a number of actors that can handle a series of physically demanding and coordinated moves. Joe Taslim would be perfect to handle the physical roles of Jack, and with a battle between him and Aku, Taslim would definitely be able to portray a  huge battle between Jack and Aku.

George Takei as Aku

George Takei could give us the slightly menacing and comical Aku in a live action Samurai  Jack  film. Aku isn't necessarily sinister, but more of a powerful figure in which acknowledges the fact that he has power and feels as though no one has the potential to beat him....except Jack.

Christoph Waltz (Django: Unchained) as The Scotsman

First coming in contact with Jack on the Bridge the Scotsman is a comical figure that could be considered a bad mother shut your mouth. Christoph waltz could portray the Scotsman perfectly. A runner up for the role suggested by Mr. Doughnut (a fancast genius) is Gerard Butler, yet his comedic aspect seems to lack in some areas and he isn't the A-list actor you want portraying a figure in your film all the time.

Will Yun Lee (The Wolverine) as Shinobi Shadow Warrior

Only reason why he wasn't chosen as Jack was because the story almost demands for a younger more believable Jack.. Only thing that Joes Taslim really has on Will Yun Lee is the age factor, but  Lee is still a great figure to have within the movie.

Mark Luu,  Lance Luu, Charles Luu (Pacific Rim) as the Three Blind Archers

Another artistic piece from the Samurai Jack run is the three blind archers. Being that they are a play on with the three blind mice. Each one lacks vision, but there acute sense of hearing can pin point any form of movement. Being that it is rare to find triplet acotrs Mark, Lance, and Charles are perfect for the roles .

Directed by Gareth Evans (The Raid Redemption)

Gareth Evans is by far one of my favorite directors. Not only is he young but he can let his action sequences do the talking for him. Being that Samurai Jack is a artistic form and aims primarily to give you that dose of action that you rarely see on the big screen, Gareth Evans is probably the top choice to take on this film

Cinematography by Larry Fong (Watchmen) 

300, Watchmen, Sucker Punch, I mean he is a amazing visual aspect of the film world. Taking on the Batman Vs. Superman project can be a way to show you how big he is starting to become in the industry. He would be perfect as a director of photography.

 Music by Pharrell Williams (Despicable Me) and Daft Punk (Tron: Legacy)

Samurai Jack depends heavily on a variety of music ranging from traditional Japanese all the way to upbeat techno. Daft Punk is legendary in the music world and they literally transformed the perception of Tron: Legacy with the soundtrack. This musical combination for Samurai Jack could be the next best thing since peanut butter and Jelly.

So how do you feel about this Samurai Jack fancast? Do you feel like someone should be added to the cast that hasn't already been mentioned? Leave your Comments Below!

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New 'Spider-Man' Rumors Include Possible Involvement Of Russo Brothers, Drew Goddard, And Dylan O'Brien

For some, the fact that we're getting yet another Spider-Man reboot still hasn't quite sunken in. Yet the reality that the days of Andrew Garfield and Marc Webb's Amazing Spider-Man series are over have hit quick, especially with the constant buzz already surrounding the next set of Marvel Studios' produced Spidey films. We've been hearing all types of rumors, ranging from which actor will portray the titular hero, as well as what director will helm the next solo film, and of course what other Marvel films will the new wallcrawler be showing up in. New reports have suggested that Drew Goddard and the Russo brothers may both be up to direct the upcoming film, as well as giving away new details about the solo film, and Dylan O'Brien has finally come out and spoken about the possibility of him playing Spidey himself.

First up are several new details and rumors that hit the web courtesy of Latino-Review's own Kellvin Chavez. The report suggests that director Drew Goddard (Cabin in the Woods) is Sony's choice to both write and direct the upcoming 2017 Spider-Man solo film. This doesn't come as much of a surprise considering Goddard's recent involvement with Marvel, having been the original show runner for the upcoming Daredevil TV show before dropping out, and going on to be Sony's choice for the seemingly canceled Sinister Six film. That being said, other sites including THR and The Wrap have followed up and the story, and claim that the job isn't Goddard's yet, and that he's is really just the frontrunner at the moment and has yet to meet with the studio.

This would make sense, especially considering the recent news that Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Civil War directors Joe and Anthony Russo have inked a deal to work for Sony. This is of course especially interesting with the Russo's currently working on the film that will introduce the new Spider-Man (Civil War), and the duo is thought to be the favorites to direct Infinty Wars Parts 1 and 2 for Marvel. The Sony leaked emails revealed the companies desire to get the Russos involved with many of their developing franchises, specifically Spider-Man, so it seems highly likely that the two will be involved with the upcoming series to some degree. Although its unknown whether they are up to direct the film (Especially if these rumors of Goddard's involvement are true) it seems more likely that they'll actually be serving as producers for the solo film. 

Latino-Review's scoop as revealed that the studio is looking to name the upcoming film Spectacular Spider-Man, and it may in fact still feature the Sinister Six team of super villains. They also reveal that the first film will see Spider-Man fighting Iron Man in order to pass the test to join The Avengers. They also suggest Sony wants to go with an unknown actual high school age Peter Parker, and are hoping to have the actor group up along with the character over the span of multiple trilogies in the same way the Harry Potter series did it. This seemingly would debunk the rumors that have been circulating on Reddit that actor Dylan O'Brien (The Maze Runner) has already been cast in the role of Spider-Man. The actor himself has come out and debunked the rumors that he has spoken to the studio about the role, but has expressed his interest if the opportunity were to arise.

So how do you feel about Sony's rumored plans for the upcoming reboot? Would you prefer to see Drew Goddard, the Russo brothers, or another director tackle the project? Are you still hoping Dylan O'Brien may play the role? Let us know below!

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