When it was announced that Danny Boyle and Alex Garland were pairing up once again for the third installment of their rage virus film, 28 Years Later, I was ecstatic, especially knowing it will star Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer. However, those expectations fell into a pit of disappointment.

The unique cinematography style of implementing iPhones was not all that thrilling.  It took away from the frightening scenes. The storyline was complicated and did not fully develop, which led this movie to fall deep into a grave. The naked zombie Neanderthals was rather ridiculous. I get that the film’s plot takes place 28 years after the spread of the chaotic infection, but watching a pregnant zombie and a huge male zombie with a swinging dong was not what I had imagined.

Performances from Jodie Comer and Alfie Williams were wonderful – even Swedish actor Edvin Ryding was entertaining as soldier Erik. Sadly, those performances were drowned out with the high-tide, convoluted story.

Ralph Fiennes had a small, yet influential role as the eccentric Dr. Ian Kelson – refrain from getting excited about the symbolism of a spine-chilling mount of skulls and pillars of bones. Though, it seemed a bit too late in the film, Aaron Taylor-Johnson pulled a great performance as Jamie with a dramatic intense final scene.

If you are wondering about where Jack O’Connell fits in the world of naked zombie chaos, wait until the end. At least you will get a good dose of punk music along with a cliffhanger. Perhaps another 28 “something time” Later could be in the works? It would be good to stay hopeful. There is an excellent opportunity for the next chapter to up the ante and include Cillian Murphy as Jim, since the name “Jim” is a popular name used throughout 28 Years Later.

The only thing impressive of this live-action remake of How To Train Your Dragon is Toothless (The Night Fury) and the other dragons flying around in breathtaking scenery. Gerard Butler is always great, no matter what. He was obviously the perfect choice to attain the role of Stoick the Vast, since he was the voice in the original animated film. However, not much can be said about the rest of the cast. It was a shame they were not able to make that connection to the characters of a classic animated movie we have grown to adore.

I really expected more out of Mason Thames since he’s done amazing work in The Black Phone, but he probably was not a good fit for the role of Hiccup. Though, you can tell he did put in great effort towards the last half of the film. As for Nico Parker, she had the opportunity to shine but also fell flat with her performance as Astrid – it lacked her strong-willed attitude.

No doubt there were high expectations for the current live-action remake, which added pressure on the entire cast. However, it looks like they will be getting a second opportunity to refine their acting techniques and redeem themselves. Universal Pictures announced back in April of this year that a live-action sequel, How to Train Your Dragon 2, was in development and scheduled for release in the summer of 2027.

Despite the acting, How To Train Your Dragon has impressive and captivating graphics. It is a good summer movie for the entire family to enjoy. The new generation will definitely fall in love with Toothless, and the previous generation will continue to adore this fiercely loyal, and ferociously loving dragon.

From the World of John Wick: Ballerina comes a nonstop impactful action film that is set between the events in John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and John Wick: Chapter 4 timeline. Ballerina is a fantastic addition to the John Wick franchise. It takes you on a wild journey to a secluded snowy mountain village of Hallstatt, Austria. Ana de Armas gives a killer performance in the role of Eve, the little ballerina girl turned assassin to avenge the death of her father.  

Writer Derek Kolstad, known for the successful contribution of the John Wick films, paired up once again with Shay Hatten – writer for John Wick 3 and 4. Together, they created another exciting chapter that gives a glimpse of the underworld feud between crime families – one being more of a lethal cult. Kolstad and Hatten bring back familiar characters to Ballerina – Winston (Ian McShane), The Director (Anjelica Huston) and the beloved manager of the Continental, Charon (Lance Reddick’s last film appearance). They also introduce new exciting characters – The Chancellor (Gabriel Byrne), Dex (Robert Masser) and Daniel Pine (Norman Reedus).

Director Len Wiseman did magnificent work using dark tones highlighted with electric purple that captures the atmosphere of the shadowy crime network that is blended with mysticism and luxury. The selection of weaponry was fitting for all the action scenes. A katana was masterfully used by Eva, and impressive flamethrowers that can roast any enemy like a marshmallow.

Ana de Armas obviously underwent some intense physical training for the part of Eve. De Armas was fierce and engaging in her hand to hand combat scenes, especially when she comes face to face with the one and only Baba Yaga, John Wick (Keanu Reeves). The special appearance by Reeves is remarkable and has such sophistication that he never disappoints in his role as John Wick. He knows how to captivate the audience.

Ballerina has all the aspects for an entertaining action summer movie. Evidently, there are many deep-hidden secrets within the World of John Wick. With eager anticipation, those underground tales of Jardani Jovonovich will continue to indulge the curiosity of avid fans in forthcoming productions.