Lauren Strauss – Movie Madness

April 28, 2022April 28, 2022

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

Movie Madness: Week 11

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs was originally based on the book written by Judi Barrett and illustrated by Ron Barrett. Though the plot was loosely referenced for the making of this film, a characteristic that made it stand out after a decade of animation is the rubberhose movement and extremely over-the-top expressions. This was a big leap after Sony Picture’s last film: Monster House. Pairing these elements to a beloved story we all heard before bedtime, Sony Picture’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs was a hit. Making 243 million dollars and was “Certified Fresh” rating of 86% on rotten tomatoes. though its audience has grown up since its 2009 release it has made a resurgence over the years on the internet. This speaks volumes about the film’s animation, story, and overall influence on pop culture. If you are feeling nostalgic, or even a little hungry, give this movie a watch.

Final Thoughts

Favorite clip from the movie

Cam

Eric

https://youtu.be/aX6j99Vvjf8

Lauren

April 21, 2022April 21, 2022

Croods 2

Movie Madness: Week 10

In the sequel to The Croods (2013), Croods 2 continues off of undeveloped plot points of the first and runs with it. Much of the tone is the same compared in the first movie. However, the second movie just seemed sillier and slapstickish in humor the further you got into the movie. Croods 2 left a stronger impression than the first movie though its release was hindered in the height of the pandemic. The facial animations captured of the 3D renders captured every detail in their faces perfectly. Giving the characters elasticity and overall enhancing the characters. Out of all the media covered on Movie Madness, Croods 2 was the first to consistently use split-screen and slow-motion action to emphasize characters and scenes. Though it may not be a diamond-in-the-rough masterpiece, it is a good watch for anyone who enjoys slapstick or Nick Cage.

Final Thoughts

Opinions on the movie

Cam

The entire movie felt like a fever dream. I liked hearing my boy, Nicolas Cage, but overall not a big fan of the movie. It felt all over the place and a lot of the humor was a miss for me

Eric

For Croods 2: I thought that it was a very mid movie, good for a single time watch, but I definitely wouldn’t need to see this again.

Lauren

It was just another movie for me. I could laugh at a few parts so its not a waste of time.

April 14, 2022April 14, 2022

Invincible

Movie Madness: Week Nine

From last week’s review of Netflix’s Arcane, we thought it is only fair to go over another show that came out of nowhere in 2021. Invincible, based on the comic published from 2003 to 2018, was adapted into its first season on Hulu. Its surprisingly gruesome fight scenes, adult themes, and mystery as to ‘who killed the guardians’ were what hooked its audience. Though the animation for this show was nothing stellar, the Hannah Barbera animation style (limited in movements) gave this show charm similar to that of the old DC animated series. You could really tell where they put the budget in when you see some of the fight scenes later in the show. Overall, the storyline and voice acting really makes the show shine. (Especially J.K. Simmons Omni man). However, when the animation is given the attention it deserves, (final fight) it really makes you wonder why marvel cant do something more like this.

Final Thoughts

How did you feel about the adult themes in Invincible?

Cam

My favorite type of superhero content includes violence, so I really enjoyed the adult themes in Invincible. Just seeing Omni-Man go ham made me go “YOOOOOOOO”

Eric

I enjoyed the more adult themes within the show. I thought it was pretty refreshing to see the animation be a lot more gruesome with some of its scenes.

Lauren

I really wish we could have more animated shows like this. We need more adult animation so it can finally be seen to be more than a medium for younger audiences to enjoy. Shows like Invincible and Arcane are setting a promising path.

April 7, 2022

ARCANE

Movie Madness: Week Eight

yes, it’s time to cover another animated series. Arcane really shot out of nowhere onto Netlfix in the midst of 2021. As most of its audience knows, Arance is based on the 2009 game League of Legends. Sticking close to its guns (lore from the game) and stylized animation style; Arcane saw a smashing success worldwide. People who were familiar or unfamiliar could follow and get enthralled in the story. The 3D animation style took a similar movement to that of Spiderverse (2018) being animated on 2s. The snappy motion-captured really gave the characters the attention an animated movie from Disney would give. The expressions read clearly and sold voice actors’ performances as beloved characters. If you are familiar with League of Legends, you are in for a wonderful surprise as Netflix adapted it into one of their rare smash hits. If you aren’t familiar, it is still highly suggested to watch.

Final Thoughts

What did you think of this game-to-series adaptation?

Cam

Arcane’s animation is very very good. Heimerdinger is the best. Just don’t play league of legends after watching it. Trust me

Eric

Even though I have never really had any interest in League, I did find this game-to-series adaptation fun to watch. I really enjoyed the art style throughout it and how the different colors could contrast. It felt pretty captivating and there weren’t really any moments where I lost interest.

Lauren

Netflix really has a lot of hit-and-miss experiments. I was really not all that interested in watching Arcane since I knew nothing of league and thought I would be left in the dust as the story progressed. Holy cow was I wrong. Watch it.

March 31, 2022March 31, 2022

Akira

Movie Madness: Week Seven

Based on the 6 volume manga Akira, this cyberpunk action film directed by Katsuhiro Otomohemed has amazing scenery, world-building, complex character relations, and Cel animation. I can not tell you the number of times we were speechless from the horrific brutality and realistic movements of the characters in this film. The flow of the animation really did not hold back any movement expressed by the characters. The expressions were stretched to exaggerate and perfectly sold the voice acting. Overall, the movie was breathtaking to watch… However, seeing the ratings below- something seems off. Our viewing party was very confused by the end of this film. As we watched the movie, there was a constantly reiterated statement (what the fuck) as the story progressed. Perhaps we should’ve read the manga to better fill in the bits we missed. Maybe we should’ve watched it when our brains all could focus… Most likely we are just idiots. If you like a complex and mysterious story with nostalgic anime art and movement- this might be an interesting watch.

Final Thoughts

Would you suggest this movie to people who are as unfamiliar with Akira?

Cam

The backgrounds and movement were really well-done in the movie, but the facial expressions were incredibly cursed most of the time. Also, I had no idea what was going on in the story. If you were to watch it, I would suggest watching it with someone who knows what the plot is, or else you’re going to likely be very confused as to what the Frankenstein babies are.

Eric

How about no?

Lauren

Unless you have read the manga or have someone who knows what’s going on to watch it with you- no.

March 24, 2022March 25, 2022

Monster House

Movie Madness: Week Six

Monster House is a movie I’m sure we all vaguely remember. From the scary story of a possessed house to the awkwardly stylistic visuals; Monster House leaves an impression on its viewers. Despite its weird renders of 3D characters, the story stands out from the rest of what Sony Pictures has produced. A suspenseful movie for kids is not something that hasn’t really been done in the states since the early 2000s (with the exception of Paranorman). However, the animation in the movie falls flat. Whenever you see characters run there’s not as much weight or sure speed defined. The energy behind the character’s actions seemed lifeless and not snappy enough to fool the eye. The facial expressions are also a bit questionable. The faces expressed between characters didn’t seem to fully sell the interaction. I understand that the style of the film doesn’t fully lean into the cartoonish expressions we are used to. However, I think they could’ve gotten away with a bit more exaggeration. Despite its faults in clunky animation, the voice actors, character dynamics, and overall story really save it. If you’re a person who likes suspense and a fondness for something that looks like a hybrid of claymation and 3D- this is a movie for you.

Final Thoughts

What did you think of the visual style for this movie?

Cam

The movement matched with the animation style was really weird and a little unsettling. That being said, I still found it to be overall funny

Eric

Visually, the movie isn’t that appealing and can be very weird, however the sheer amount of comedic value that the animation style adds is very good, if you want to make fun of a movie.

Lauren

Personally, I don’t really enjoy this movie a lot due to the weird visual styles of the characters. The hair seems especially jarring.

March 17, 2022March 17, 2022

Kung Fu Panda 2

Movie Madness: Week Five

Kung Fu Panda was a great hit in both America and China’s box office. Director Mark Osborne and John Stevenson reveal that Chinese cultural accuracy was one of the most important elements in making Kung Fu Panda. From that dedication and attention to detail came a flood of success and later a sequel. The Kung Fu Panda trilogy has a memorable animation style using 3D and 2D animation. With these stunning techniques came heartwarming morals for kids to learn: be yourself and to allow yourself to heal. Both Kung Fu Panda and Kung Fu Panda 2 are great wacthes for any martial arts lover. However, I believe the sequel really takes the cake for its attention to detail in 2D shadow puppets and emotional 2D flashback scene.

Final Thoughts

How do you think the second movie compares to the first?

Cam

The 2D scenes were so well done. I’m very happy they showed Po’s backstory because Mr Ping is a natural treasure.

Eric

Overall, even though I still preferred the first movie, I enjoyed the change with Shen having more of a reliance on weapons and the mental battle and the humor in some of the scenes.

Lauren

For a while I always favorited the first movie over the second. Now, I see both on the same ground considering the villains being different types of challenge for Po. Shen is a great mental opponent to go against.

March 10, 2022March 10, 2022

Shrek 2

Movie Madness: Week Four

One of these films was going to be covered, it was inevitable. Shrek 2 is a movie everyone is well acquainted with. Released in 2004 by Dreamworks, Shrek 2 was a film most college students grew up with. Riddled with pop culture and music, Shrek 2 stands out as one of the most successful and meaningful sequels in animation. The story builds off and perfectly continues the lesson of self-worth and belonging. The most amazing thing I think Shrek 2 did was perfectly incorporate and give time to new characters. The balance of character development and exposure made the new cast joining seem all the more important to the plot. The 3D animation holds up and stays consistent with its earlier predecessor from 2001. The animation, while less stylistic to media previously covered, is still fun and exciting to watch from the expressive voice cast and well-paced story. If you haven’t seen Shrek 2 but enjoy quick humor and spoof fairytales this is a great movie to watch.

Final Thoughts

Who is the best character in Shrek 2?

Cam

Fiona’s dad was my favorite character. Almost every line he said was hilarious and convincing, due to how good the voice actor was. Also, he’s a frog.

Eric

The best character in Shrek 2 is Puss in Boots, there is no reason or logic for why, it simply just is.

Lauren

Fairy godmother, she is one of the most iconic villains in animation. She could sing, run a potion business, and be super evil. 10/10 character.

March 3, 2022March 3, 2022

Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro

Movie Madness: Week Three

Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro is an older, but tasteful film for review this week. Released in 1979, and based is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Monkey Punch. Lupin the Third follows master thief Arsène Lupin, the grandson of Arsène Lupin, the gentleman thief of Maurice Leblanc’s series of novels. Following foreign animation in movies is something that is not often covered in American culture. (With the exception of the Studio Ghibli Films). The introduction really draws viewer in and immediately throws them into the action. Little to no information on the characters is shared but the story was easy to follow and pick up character traits as it progressed. That alone speaks volume for a great movie. The pacing, score, and expressions stick out and sell the emotion and stakes throughout the movie. Animation style taken in comedic and dramatic scenes made this movie’s charm stick out through years of other films we have seen.This is one of the best films we have covered to date!

Final Thoughts

What did you like about Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro?

Cam

I’ve seen Lupin III for the third time within the span of a year. I love it. The music makes me boogie.

Eric

I liked how well defined and vibrant it was in each environment, how much action there was, and how the police officer yells “Luuuppiiiinnnn!!!”

Lauren

I first saw this film while taking my animation history course. Needless to say, it made an impression. I even covered it in a short video going over foreign animated movies. I’d suggest it to anyone who likes heist movies and jazzy music.

February 24, 2022March 2, 2022

The Cuphead Show

Movie Madness: Week Two

Yes, yes we know what you are thinking. But this show is just a piece of animated media you can not miss! The Cuphead Show was originally based off of the 2017 Cuphead game. Comparing this to last week’s media feature, the animation was very fluid and took a turn into the original rubberhose animation style. The faces often went off-model to display very unique and diverse expressions. However, 2D animation was not the only thing at work in the show. Stop motion, 3D animation also pulled their weight in the backgrounds and title cards. overall this amazing show has something for any animation lover!

Final Thoughts

What did you think of the overall show? (season one)

Cam

It was sooooo good. The Devil, King Dice, and the cupboys were so well-done. However, Bowlboy needs more screentime.

Eric

I loved the energy that the show game off and how expressive all the characters were. Super fun to watch.

Lauren

I think this show would be a great study of combining animation styles with an overall whole and unified look.