MOVIE REVIEW: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Disney/Marvel took a risk with the first Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014 since it's one of the lesser known comic books in the company, Fortunately it became a big box office hit with its irreverent humor and great chemistry from the cast.

Vol. 2 retains the best qualities of the first film. It however has the beautiful psychedelic like visuals last seen in Doctor Strange and some great cameos that will make you smile. The soundtrack also offers more obscure songs (compared to Vol. 1) from the past yet it worked and blended well in the movie.

This sequel is all about family. From fathers to father figures and friends you consider to call your own. Don't be surprised if some tears come out of your eyes especially in one of the final scenes of the film.

Chris Pratt shines more in this sequel since his character Peter Quill found his father Ego (a magnificent Kurt Russell). The two provide most of the best scenes in the film minus the action and if there's ever an award for casting, this is a surefire nominee.

Guardians Vol. 2 is one fun movie that will make you wish for more of the Marvel misfits on the big screen.

MOVIE REVIEW: Smurfs: The Lost Village

The first fully animated feature film in the franchise, Smurfs: The Lost Village goes back to its TV animated roots of my generation's childhood. It's a delight to see the blue elf like creatures back in their natural habitat devoid of live action and Neil Patrick Harris. The animation is modern yet it doesn't measure up to the charm of the TV series in old school 2D. 

The film is basically about Smurfette (voiced by pop superstar Demi Lovato), the only female in the village. It is a good premise since we were all wondering when we were kids on why she's the only one. The answer lies on this film with the old Smurf gang and the villain Gargamel (voiced by Rainn Wilson this time, a step back from Hank Azaria's commendable turn in the 2 live action animation films) and his cat and sidekick Azrael. The  new additions are the Forbidden Forest and what's inside. I won't spoil it but it certainly preps up for more films in the series.

Smurfs: The Lost Village could have been better as a film but undoubtedly it has a heart.