Rock it, Kamen Rider

 

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Big Kamen Rider fan here, so I was given a Kamen Rider (last month) that matches my love for guitar and music.

Cheers to @darren_crossculcha for this

Have a rocking 2026, everyone!

 

MGD Tim's Thoughts -- Zootopia 2

Arguably one of Disney’s better hits in recent years, so it’s not surprising that a sequel is imminent. I mean, what could go wrong when you have an animal world that looks like our human everyday life.

While it recycled its formula of “there’s more than you first thought”, the fun world of Zootopia keeps you glued in and not losing interest of what is going on while also, not gI love how they leave a lot of small “smart” details (or references) and cameos for you to keep your eyes on screen, such as Zootopia version of Hulu , etc. Once you spot or got it, it can be fun and smart at the same time.

Personally enjoyed it, and like any Disney-related movie, there’s post-credit scene. I guess there’s another one in the horizon...

Tim rates : 7.8/10

F4 be like...

 

MGD Tim's thoughts -- Wicked for good

Gonna be straight to the point – I enjoyed the first one better than the “2nd half” of this story. The first movie gave me chills when it ended and you felt as though you just witnessed something epic. 2nd one however, somehow couldn’t match that bar which was set quite high. It just felt like you are back to your normal home cooked meal after enjoying a luxury meal, the day before.

Because we all are familar with the Wizard of Oz story, while you get to explore a different side of that story, it felt like this movie just wanna get over with it. This caused the pacing of the movie to be inconsistent, with some parts can be abrupt and some parts are draggy. They are smart though not to let the “Wizard of Oz” characters/story to overshadow this movie

The movie just didn’t hit the emotions hard enough, even the songs too. At least you get to hear the vocal prowess of the cast, especially Cynthia and Ariana.

All in all, can’t get over the fact that first one was epic.

Tim rates : 6.8/10

MGD Tim's Thoughts -- now you can see me, now you don't

The first movie was mind-blowing for me, the sequel couldn’t capture the magic of the first one. So, here comes the third... while I was looking forward to see what magic that it will serve, it still couldn’t capture that magic from the first movie.

As the characters themselves said in the movie, probably it’s been too long for them to comeback together. At the same time, it felt like this movie is trying to be a bridge to bring back the fans of the franchise while introducing more characters to the new audience. Personally felt the final act of the movie was a bit flat but hey, hopefully they can discover the magic again for future movies (of this franchise) , especially with that lovely cameo.

Still, there’s twists and unexpected turns. Still there’s some things to enjoy. At least, they are back for another heist fun.

Tim rates : 7/10

MGD Tim's Thoughts -- OMiTB

 

What happens when you have Selena Gomez hanging out with Martin Short and Steve Martin, in a posh apartment? Well, some murder case(s) to solve!

Honestly, it's been both me and my wife's favourite series. It's engaging, fun and keeps you on the edge of your seat with all the plot twists. The storyline has been fun, smart and well-written, especially the way they unfold the mystery and story while trying to guide you through the information and plot. So if you are up for mystery-solving series (think of it a bit like Scooby Doo), then this is something for you to enjoy. Bonus is that there's a lot of (familar) guest stars that actually do bring some substance to the story.

We've been following it since season 1, and I enjoyed each of it. I thought season 5 was the finale, because the way it was written but it seems they have announced season 6 and could be (finally) out of the building. I hope they don't drag themselves too long, or else they run out of steam.

I rate this series : 4/5. Always fun to watch.

MGD Tim's thoughts -- Peacemaker S2

More exploration in DCU.

Conveniently moving on from S1 context (especially that scene of changing from Justice League to Justice Gang), Peacemaker S2 explored some story-lines that make reflect deeply about life. Think of it like making you going through mid-life crisis as you try to make sense of things in life. That’s what makes James Gunn such a writer, where he peels layers and layers of emotions. He doesn’t just wanna give you comic adaption, but he just wanna give you something to enjoy and relate to.

Fair to say John Cena has proven his acting chops while Danielle Brooks’ character is among the standout character in the series. The 11th street gang had some good moments, and you gotta say once again, James Gunn knows how to turn simple characters to something that you can reflect, care and root for.

Episode 5 to 7 was among the best of the season yet it’s disappointingly short. Among those episodes, there was a huge cameo that got me going WOW. Episode 8 was over-hyped by everyone, and that’s why it disappointed some. However, once you able to piece the puzzle, then you understand the direction that DCU is going. But still, episode 8 felt more like a bridge episode instead of finale.

MGD Tim's Thoughts -- Alien: Earth S1

 

MGD Tim's Thoughts -- Marvel Zombies

 

TL2025moviewatch : Freakier Friday

 

𝐌𝐆𝐃 𝐓𝐢𝐦'𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -- Freakier Friday

“Freaky Friday” is one of Lindsay Lohan’s and Disney’s iconic movie over the years. People still talk about the chemistry between Lindsay and Jamie Lee Curtis that carried the whole movie.

So, after more than 20 years, the question is.. would the sequel worthy of it? Honestly, it’s one of those sequels that just elevate the franchise.

 

The chemistry is still strong even after decades, and even with the strong outing from the new cast members. The whole “chaos” was beautifully written. You will laugh and cry throughout the movie.

 

One of Disney’s better sequels in years.

 

TL says 8/10

 

MGD Tim's thoughts -- eyes of wakanda

Marvel animation has its hits and misses, especially the recent ones. Meanwhile, yes, Wakanda offers a rich history which can be explored so yup, like most franchises lately, animation is one route that allows such expansion.

I would say 4 episodes feels like it ended abruptly. Considering that there’s a lot to offer or show about Wakanda, it felt like not enough. There were good episodes, personally thought ep3 and ep4 was great, but yea... I am surprised that they kept it too short.

6/10 for me.

p.s. Nice to have an Iron Fist in the story.

TL2025moviewatch - Fantastic Four

As a comic book fan, Fantastic Four was among my favourite comic to read.

 

The fact that Fantastic Four "movie license" was returned to Marvel Studios few years ago excites me.

After years of waiting, man.. worth the wait.

 

Among the best MCU movie since Endgame. Personally, still digesting it, but it's in that bracket where GoTG3 and Spiderman:NWH is.

 

Love every details presented in the movie, especially with the "retro futuristic" vibe and Galactus is shown in its full glory.

 

I was happy when Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Joseph Quinn was part of this after following them respectively in "the Bear" and "Stranger Things". I was excited Vanessa Kirby was part of it but I honestly had mixed feeling about Pedro Pascal because it feels like he is everywhere. However, in this movie, he proved me wrong.. he carried Reed character with grace.

 

All in all, it felt like everyone had their time to shine. Each one of them able to showcase their talents and leave a mark in the movie. The decision to have a female Silver Surfer seems to be on spot too, those following comics will know what's her character & context is all about.

 

2 post credits. One gets your appetite going for next Avengers movie while the other.. mm.. can skipped it if you want.

 

I am pleased. I am happy. Truly a comic book movie.

 

Tim rates it : 8/10

TL2025moviewatch - Superman 2025

oh man, I enjoyed it a lot.

James Gunn is a master of turning comic book into awesome movie experience. Although by now, it seems like you already know his formula – putting emotions into characters, taking some lesser known characters and shining spotlight on them, using animal companion and jokes here and there.

Cast is on point here. My negative is Krypto is overused.

Love how he is putting in some details/easter eggs, all in building DCU.

Fun while full of feels. Excited to see more of DCU.

TIM rates 7.5/10

TL2025moviewatch - kpop demon hunters

 

I must admit, as a music guy, K-pop is slowly growing on me, I guess like it or not, the music is getting a lot of attention over the years.

 

Tbh, when I saw this on Netflix listings, I didn’t have high expectations on the movie. By the end of the movie, I actually surprised how I enjoyed it.

 

Partly because as a music guy, I am love the songs in it. It’s catchy, it’s so good. As story line-wise, interesting though it gives the Totally Spies, Kim Possible or even, Power Rangers vibes.

 

I try to be objective but honestly, the music part of this movie is what made it interesting.

 

TL rates it 7/10

TL2025moviewatch - JURASSIC WORLD : REBIRTH

  

“Life will find a way...”

 

And indeed it does. We all love our dinosaurs, and there are many dinosaurs to feature.. so not surprising that Jurassic World returns, this time with a fresh cast, fresh start and fresh way to present the dinos (?)

But not really their storyline though. Some parts does remind you of the very first Jurassic Park movie, which arguably you can say it’s clever nod or lazy writing. Honestly, how far of a plot you can go? Humans want something, they go to forbidden land, encounter dinosaurs, trying to survive the harsh condition, big showdown with a big dino then escape. Recycled for few JP/JW movies.

 

Then again, arguably it’s not a bad thing that sometimes we need some familiarity. The movie is not for the faint of hearts, especially with all the dramatic scares & jumps. 

 

I still enjoy the movie though. I think the cast is superb as well.

 

All in all, I think we don’t mind another dino adventure. Well, life will find a way....

 

p.s.

Snickers : "You're Not You When You're Hungry"

Also snickers : "we caused hybrid dinos to be hungry"

 

TL scores : 7/10

TL2025moviewatch - Elio

 

“Are we alone in the universe?”

 

Yet again, Pixar took something familiar (as in that scientific question) and then, inject emotions and meaning to it. And boom, another hit by Pixar.

 

Honestly, this gonna be one of the shortest review by me because I am just blown away by the good story telling.

 

I won’t say much but go and enjoy the ride. Emotional ride, that is.

 

8.5/10, largely because of the storyline.

TL2025moviewatch : HTTYD2025

Following the Disney’s recent route of turning animated classic into live-action, HTTYD manages to capture the charm of its animated movie while offering a beautiful interpretation of its live-action world

Plot doesn’t moved far away from its animated reference, but the live-action version still manages to built its own uniqueness and charm through the actors. You can’t have a movie without the awesome Gerard Butler (who played Stoick in both versions) who did brilliantly here. You can say the casting for the characters were on point, like Hiccup.

Dragons were animated well here, I guess they try to make it not too scary while keeping it close to the animated ones.. especially Toothless, who does look as though it jump straight from animated version, but seriously, you can’t go far or change much from its look... or else, the fans will revolt..

Family-friendly movie. So it’s another 7.5/10 from me

 

TLmoviewatch2025 : Lilo & Stitch

 

Disney’s live action adaption of their classic cartoon movies have been hits and misses.. although I would say lots of misses...

Lilo & Stitch however, will be on the side of hits.

If you are fan of the cartoon version, you will certainly enjoy this one. Of course the plot is pretty much the same but they were still able to translate the charm into this movie, well.. from cast to the plot, the message, the vibes. Lilo’s casting is on point.

Fun fact : go and spot who are the original cartoon cast that re-appeared in this movie.

Glad that they actually “controlled” Stitch from being too wacky, it’s just the “right” tone for it to be crazy yet charming too. While they have altered a bit of the minor plots, the message of family is strong in this.

Enjoyable. Although I wished that they did that classic Elvis song...

7/10

TL2025moviewatch : mission impossible - final reckoning

Final reckoning indeed.

One of the longest running movie franchises. Saying the word RUNNING got me imagining Tom Cruise running.... but it’s also best describe my feeling about this franchise – like I started this marathon, there’s ups and downs and now you feel glad that you have reached the final lap.

Indeed this has been Tom's baby, anytime u think of M.i, you think of Tom. Imagine.. from his young fresh face in the first one till the old rugged Tom in this one.

May not be as hard hitting as some of previous ones, as they were a lot of draggy scenes but to those who have been following M.i. for a long time, there's a scene of satisfaction to see how all builds towards a nice ending.

A nice closure to the whole franchise.

7.5/10

TL2025 MovieWatch :- Thunderbolts