This ‘The Lion King’ remake proudly stands on its own four feet

“The Lion King” – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences first recognized animated feature films at the 2002 Academy Awards with “Shrek” (2001) winning the inaugural top prize.  If the category existed in 1995, most certainly “The Lion King” (1994) (4/4 stars) would’ve won faster than you could say Hakuna Matata.  This Shakespearean story told on the African prairielands, and more specifically Pride Rock, captured the imagination of moviegoers – both young and old – and combined with Elton John’s beautiful soundtrack, “The Lion King” is one of…

‘Spider-Man: Far from Home’ doesn’t stray from Marvel’s Midas touch

“Spider-Man: Far from Home” – Peter Parker (Tom Holland) needs a break. This teenager fought alongside Tony Stark, became an Avenger, traveled into deep space, battled a purple-skinned, 8-foot Titan, died with half the universe’s population, and – five years later – came back to life.  If you have not seen “Avengers: Endgame” (2019), this critic will not reveal any more spoilers from that film’s colossal closing chapter on the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) first 11 years. Yes, “Endgame” delivered a spectacular ending, with all the madness and pomp and…

Indifference is the one word to describe ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’

“Solo: A Star Wars Story” – The Star Wars universe obviously centers around the Skywalker family, and during Episodes IV through VI, Luke was anointed the main protagonist.   His personal Shakespearean journey is the largest thread in the original films’ tapestry, and millions and millions – and perhaps, billions – of kids welded PVC pipes, wooden sticks and purchased plastic lightsabers to emulate Luke Skywalker. On the other hand, if one took an informal poll of Star Wars fans, more boys, young men and grown men would probably want to…