ka-karina

Undeniably I wasn't expecting a good sequel. Outside the miracle that is Shrek-2, good sequels rarely work. Still, from Adam Sandler and the universe of Happy Madison I always hold out hope for something heartwarming, feel good, uplifting and wholesome. Happy Gilmore of 2025 couldn't decide what it wanted to be for all of two hours.

The avalanche of cameos, however, is nothing short of astounding. Either the budget was unlimited or the legacy of Gilmore was too beloved to pass on (perhaps both statements are true). Fans of SNL will practically get a reunion episode out of this. But of all, Bad Bunny is a true treasure.

Something I wish Sandman thought of: do not hire your spouse and daughters to play unrelated characters when they look exactly like one another.

And then there were countless flashbacks-designed, no doubt, to transport us lovingly back to 1996. But rather than stir nostalgia, they stood as haunting reminders of what this sequel could never quite reclaim.

Sometimes it's best to let legends retire with dignity-golf club in hand and grandma's house where it belongs.

It's an interesting new take on the fantastic four story. I absolutely loved the retro feel of it as well as the pacing - tight enough to keep the audience engaged for the full two hours without the feeling of drag. There were a lot of cute moments, a pleasant family feel that these characters are known for, a few genuine laughs in the theater, and even a round of applause at one point.

However, without spoiling, I'll just say that it was more than obvious that the film, emphasis on the storyline of a pregnant woman, was written by men. The absurdity of it at times made me laugh..nervously.

I feel like as with most remakes these days, it was a bit too soon for the new fantastic four. Vanessa Kirby was born for the big screen and I love everything she's ever been in. But I found it hard to shake the mental images of Ioan Gruffudd and Chris Evans in their roles. However Ebon is as charming as he always is and it's hard not to fall in love with his work.

Overall entertaining and slightly ludicrous, but then again, that's Marvel. I do agree with the majority - it's a better remake than most.

I was honestly so worried this would end up being another let down from Disney. But it was not.

Just as heartwarming and moving as the original Lilo&Stitch from 2002; this one had very few slight changes to the script. Yet it felt new. The theme of family, belonging and acceptance thankfully has been well preserved and translated the way no other Disney production probably has.

Maia Kealoha did a good job portraying Lilo, but for me the best addition to this Ohana was Sydney Agudong who played Nani. She was so believable, so sisterly, she carried every single one of her scenes perfectly.

For those who complained about Pleakley's live action adaptation after seeing the trailer, I think you will enjoy his character in this version. Not to the full extent of the original but Billy Magnussen totally delivers what was asked of him.

Another great surprise was bringing the original voice of Nani - Tia Carrere - to partake in the live action (in a different role of course), it was nostalgic seeing her on the big screen again and hearing her voice.

I didn't expect to get as emotional as I did watching this version as an adult, but the grief, chances as redemption and the idea that even the most flawed of us deserve love hits at any age I guess.

Still to this day one of Disney's more unconventional and emotionally resonant stories, especially for its honest portrayal of family struggles and the strength of sibling bonds. And I know the new generation will fall in love with these characters just like we did 23 years ago. Luckily the run was kept under 2 hours long so nobody will have a chance to complain.