Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) Trailer

Knowing that this is a movie based on Marvel comics, I am interested in watching it.However, the tone of this movie is different from the other Marvel movies. 

Superheros such as Captain America and Hulk are more uptight, comparatively speaking.  The Guardians of the Galaxy are a bunch of fugitives and outlaws who kick-ass and are the unlikely superheros.  This wrong match makes the characters and the movie fun.

Music brings up the atmosphere of the movie.  The songs are catchy and you would want to download the songs to listen after watching this movie.The plot of the story is so-so. 

It's fight after fight but you won't remember who's who unless you read the comic book.The characters are unique and unforgettable.  Star-Lord is the lousy protagonist who is a thief (or bounty hunter?).  It's funny that Zoe Saldana is featured in so many sci-fi movies including Avatar, Star Trek as well as Guardians of the Galaxy.  Rocket is a mean and talkative racoon. Groot is the loyal team-mate who is a tree.  Drax is impulsive but physically strong.  I'm surprised to see Karen Gillan as Nebula.  What a big break through for her acting. All I can remeber the line is "I am Groot". And he did say a thousand times. LOL.The choreography and the martial arts are amazing. 

Gamora has such good shape.This is a fun and energetic movie but is only recommended if you are a sci-fi fan.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014) Trailer

I think Rise of the Planet of the Apes and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes are two under-rated movies.

I enjoyed the movie and I didn't notice that time flew.  The movie is 2 hours 10 minute long.

The premise is set 10 years after the first sequel.  By that time, ape flu has caused millions of death.  The ape tribe led by Ceasar lives in the woods and haven't seen any humans for the last two years.  They think humans are extinct until one day a team of humans comes across with the apes.  Tension is built between the apes and the humans as they both fight for survival.


The characters except Ceasar are one-dimentional.  The exploration team of humans consists of the protagonist, a female medic, a son, a screw-things-up character and another forgettable character.  Such a cliche team.  Even Koba is a cliche character.  I'm only interested in seeing how Ceasar makes his moral decisions.


One thing remarkable is that not only the apes use sign language, they speak in English!  As their secondary language, the apes use simple vocabulary and is easy to understand what they say.


I think the best part of this movie is the cinematography.  I remember the scene which an ape (probably Koba) takes over a tank and shoot the humans.  The camera follows the ape's POV and the shot is almost like a video game!  The effect is stunning.


Overall, I enjoy this movie very much.  I expect there will be another sequel.