True to its tagline, Kiriyama adapts "Chushingura" faithfully, delivering genuinely entertaining storytelling. The film centers on a knight's unwavering quest for justice and vengeance on behalf of his lord. Unlike Kiriyama's more flamboyant films, such as CASSHERN and GOEMON, this one feels much more serious and carefully crafted. The main character's backstory seems important, so it was disappointing that the flashbacks were left out. It was a beautifully put-together film, featuring cool accessories and backgrounds typical of Kiriyama's style, along with an easy-to-follow story. Despite lacking flashy scenes, the film’s focus on the universal theme of loyalty maintains engagement and reinforces the main argument.

This film was incredibly confusing, but that confusion is key to its main point. In a multiverse where nihilism and love intersect, emotional connection emerges as a powerful response to chaos. The story moves viewers from a laundromat to the farthest reaches of the universe. Director Daniels fully leans into strange and crude humor, creating a silly but touching sci-fi story that feels uniquely their own. The film Everything Everywhere All at Once is the 2023 Academy Award-winning Best Picture, directed by the duo known as “The Daniels,” Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert.

The movie marks the first live-action version of DreamWorks Animation's hit series. Dean DeBlois, who directed all three animated movies, returned for the live-action version. He was hesitant at first, but his love for the series convinced him to take on the challenge. The most exciting part of the film is watching Hiccup and Toothless fly together. Filmed in Scotland and Finland, these scenes feel more real and lighter than anything in the animated movies. When they shoot out of the sea and glide through the clouds, it’s as thrilling as a roller coaster.

The visual effects and 3D presentation are impressive, but the film doesn't offer much new for those who have seen the earlier movies. Its complicated story and sudden ending make it feel repetitive instead of moving the series forward.

The second Transformers movie pushes Michael Bay's style even further, packing in more action and over-the-top moments than before. Early in the film, Megan Fox’s character Mikaela is shown in a shot that focuses on her as she leans against a motorcycle, emphasizing sexuality in a manner not typically expected from a family film based on children’s toys. Other scenes include a honey trap aimed at Sam, the return of the Transformers' "ball gag" from the previous film, dog mating jokes, the hip-shaking of the small Transformer "Wheely," and John Turturro's thong. These recurring crude gags make the film's comedic style distinct, though their appropriateness within the context of a family-targeted franchise may be questioned.

The new film cuts back on some of the annoying elements from the first movie, such as forced crises and weak defenses, but retains the Purge setting. This installment feels more expansive, and its satisfying ending makes it highly entertaining. The characters stand out: the deranged driver, the zealot woman, the mafia exploiting the Purge, and the rich treating it as a game. Sustained survival tension makes this an especially entertaining survival film.

Made by the same studio as "Underworld," I, Frankenstein has a similar dark vibe, but it puts more emphasis on action than on horror. This movie is fast-paced and full of action, so there isn’t much time to take in every part of the story. I was glad to see that Frankenstein’s backstory stuck closely to the original, without any strange changes. The production quality and CG were impressive. I also enjoyed the Gargoyle character, which had a fun, exaggerated style that reminded me of stories I liked in middle school.

Tom Cruise is back in Top Gun: Maverick, bringing thrilling fighter jet action and plenty of drama. The film has everything fans love about action movies. From intense aerial battles to Maverick’s journey as a mentor, every scene packs an emotional punch. The music, including Kenny Loggins' classic "Danger Zone" and Lady Gaga’s new theme, adds even more excitement and makes the experience unforgettable.

The 2007 film brought Japan's Transformers toys back to life in Hollywood. With Steven Spielberg producing and Michael Bay directing, the movie utilized advanced CGI and thrilling action to transform a once-unfilmable idea into a global hit. Audiences loved seeing vehicles change into robots, and the story of a regular high school student saving the world gave it a timeless charm. Its fun style and impressive sound made it the beginning of a much-loved series.

After the first half hour, the film keeps you on edge with nonstop suspense. Still, the child character sometimes makes choices that feel off, which, even though it's a common storytelling trick, pulled me out of the moment. Occasionally, news reports cover riots or attacks involving corporate buildings and government officials. This film prompts viewers to consider what such chaos might be like firsthand. The depiction is grounded and unsettling, creating a strong sense of realism.