Red Tails

Directed By: Anthony Hemingway

Written By: John Ridley and Aaron McGruder

Starring: Cuba Gooding Jr., Terrence Howard, Nate Parker and David Oyelowo

Rated: PG-13

MY RATING: B+

Historic action in the skies with heart and importance!

Red Tails follows a group of African American pilots in the Tuskegee training program.  Despite their skills they face segregation during World War II and are not allowed to participate in combat.  With nothing but time on their hands they constantly train in hopes of one day putting their skills to use.

They finally get their chance when Colonel A.J. Bullard’s (Terrence Howard) constant efforts pay off and they get their first mission.  Disproving all of the negative stereotypes the pilots turn out to be some of the best in the air.  This is an action packed movie with lots of flight sequences.  At the same time this one delivers heart through the bond that the pilots share.  

Pros: The acting - especially Terrence Howard, Nate Parker & David Oyelowo, the action - great flight scenes and the realism which transports the audience right to World War II times.  There’s also comedic relief thanks to a job well done by Ne-Yo.

Cons: The love story between “Lightning” (Oyelowo) and Sofia (Daniela Ruah) was unnecessary, rushed and therefore felt a little unbelievable and out of place. 

(Note to Parents: There is profanity and some graphic violence.) 

I'd say definitely see this one and tell others to see it too!

The Adventures of Tintin

Directed By: Steven Spielberg

Written By: Steven Moffat

Starring: Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis and Daniel Craig

Rated: PG

MY RATING: B+

A high tide of adventure for children and adults alike!

This film begins with news reporter Tintin (Jamie Bell) purchasing a model ship, the Unicorn, at a street market.  When a gentleman named Mr. Sakharine (Daniel Craig) shows a peculiar interest in the ship Tintin uses his research skills to find out why.  Soon he and his dog Snowy are racing against Mr. Sakharine to find answers.  Along the way they meet Captain Haddock (Andy Serkis) who drunkenly masters Sakharine’s ship and agrees to help Tintin and his four legged companion.  Captain Haddock reveals that his ancestor Sir Frances Haddock was forced to abandon the original Unicorn ship and now he proves to be the missing piece to the puzzle.  So the trio sets off on an air, land and sea adventure that is truly entertaining.

Pros: Superb animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy and Andy Serkis as Captain Haddock.

Cons: Storyline a little hard to follow at first.   

I'd say this is definitely worth seeing for the great animation and action!