Film | Rivenmaster Raves

December 31, 2023February 5, 2024

Percy Jackson and the Olympians a Mythological Adventure

The Story:

Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a thrilling Disney series that follows the adventures of a young demigod named Percy Jackson adapted from the popular book series written by Rick Riordan. Released in 2023, this series takes viewers on an action-packed journey through the world of Greek mythology.

The story revolves around Percy, played by Walker Scobell, a troubled twelve-year-old boy who discovers that he is the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. As he attends Camp Half-Blood, a training ground for demigods, Percy learns about his true identity and the existence of a vast network of gods, monsters, and magical creatures.

In the first season, titled “The Lightning Thief,” Percy is accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt, the most powerful weapon in the world. Determined to clear his name and prevent a war between the gods, Percy embarks on a dangerous quest across the United States with his loyal friends Annabeth, daughter of Athena, and Grover, a satyr. Along the way, they encounter various mythological creatures and face perilous challenges.

As the series progresses, Percy’s adventures continue in subsequent seasons, exploring different quests and battles against powerful foes. They encounter Hades, the god of the Underworld, in “The Sea of Monsters,” and face off against the Titan Kronos in “The Titan’s Curse.” Each season delves deeper into the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, introducing new gods, monsters, and epic battles.

Throughout the series, Percy grapples with his identity as a demigod and the responsibilities that come with it. He struggles with his relationship with his father, Poseidon, and contends with the expectations placed upon him by the gods. Alongside his friends, Percy learns to harness his own powers and find the strength within himself to overcome the challenges he faces.

The Cast:

The cast quickly comes together as a Trinity of outstanding young actors portraying their characters in such a convincing way that instantly turns fantasy into reality for the viewer.

You might immediately recognize Percy played by “Walker Scobell”. Walker has quickly made a name for himself especially in his two previous films. “The Adam Project” and “Secret Headquarters”. Walker is extremely talented making his character come alive with the use of his emotional expression which quickly convinces you that his character is real.

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“Leah Jeffries” who plays Annabeth Chase also brings much talent to the table and demonstrates her prowess as a young actor in this series. Leah is also known from previous films such as Beast and Something from Tiffany’s. You can be sure that this young lady has a great acting career ahead of her.

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“Aryan Simhadri” plays Grover, best friend and guardian of Percy. Grover is part human and part goat making him not only the most unique of the three, but also a hero who manages to keep Percy from losing his cool while helping him understand his place as a demigod. Aryan is also no rookie to the film industry. While this may be one of his first major film appearances, IMDB lists him with a total of 25 actor credits to his name.

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Although the series has currently only begun having released its first 3 episodes, you can be sure it’s going to be a hit to all the fans of the book and to both young and old fantasy film fans.

Also, could this be Disney’s way of finishing what we have been missing because the 3rd film of the original series was never made? I guess we will all just have to wait! Hurry go get caught up on it now. Disney Plus awaits…. Log in to Disney Plus

Summary:

Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a captivating blend of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes. It explores the timeless themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery while immersing viewers in a world of gods and monsters. With its compelling characters, thrilling plotlines, and stunning visuals, the series promises an exciting and unforgettable journey into the realm of Greek mythology.

Watch it on Disney Plus

December 1, 2023December 1, 2023

The Water Man (2021)

The Water Man (2021) is a heartwarming and visually stunning film that captures the essence of childhood dreams and the power of imagination. Directed by David Oyelowo, this fantasy adventure takes viewers on an emotional journey filled with love, loss, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son.

The film follows the story of Gunner Boone, a young boy who embarks on a quest to find the mythical Water Man, a legendary figure said to possess the ability to cheat death. Gunner’s motivation stems from his mother’s illness, and he believes that finding the Water Man is the only way to save her.

Oyelowo’s direction is masterful, immersing the audience in a world where reality and fantasy seamlessly blend. The cinematography beautifully captures the enchanting landscapes and magical moments, making the film a visual treat. The use of colors and lighting adds depth and enhances the emotional impact of the story.

The performances in The Water Man are exceptional, particularly Lonnie Chavis Jr. as Gunner Boone. Chavis portrays the vulnerability and determination of his character with remarkable skill, capturing the essence of a young boy desperate to save his mother. An unlikely friendship develops in the story when Gunner meets Jo Riley, a young teen girl with a troubled background portrayed by Amiah Miller. David Oyelowo also delivers a compelling performance as Gunner’s father, showcasing the complexities of a man torn between his own grief and his son’s unwavering hope.

The film’s narrative is rich with symbolism and explores themes of love, loss, and the power of storytelling. It beautifully depicts the struggles of a family grappling with illness and the lengths they will go to protect one another. The Water Man also highlights the importance of imagination and the role it plays in overcoming adversity.

What sets The Water Man apart is its ability to resonate with both children and adults. While it is a fantastical adventure, it also delves into profound themes that will tug at the heartstrings of viewers of all ages. It reminds us of the power of hope and the strength that can be found in the face of adversity.

Finally, The Water Man is a captivating and emotionally resonant film that explores the power of imagination and the enduring bond between a father and son. With its stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and heartfelt storytelling, this film is a must-watch for audiences of all ages.

November 24, 2023November 24, 2023

A Monster Calls Moving and Captivating.

“A Monster Calls,” directed by J.A. Bayona, is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that explores the power of storytelling and the complexities of grief. Based on the novel by Patrick Ness, the movie follows the journey of a young boy named Conor, who is struggling to cope with his mother’s terminal illness.

The film begins with Conor’s vivid and terrifying nightmares, which reflect his inner turmoil. He is haunted by a monstrous tree that comes to life and tells him stories. This tree, voiced by Liam Neeson, serves as a metaphor for Conor’s emotions and acts as his guide through the difficult process of accepting his mother’s impending death.

One of the most striking aspects of “A Monster Calls” is its stunning visual imagery. The use of dark and muted colors creates a somber and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly mirrors Conor’s emotional state. The animation sequences, which illustrate the stories told by the monster, are beautifully crafted and add a magical element to the film.

The performances in the movie are exceptional, particularly from the young actor Lewis MacDougall, who portrays Conor with remarkable maturity and depth. He effectively conveys the character’s anger, sadness, and vulnerability, allowing the audience to empathize with his pain. Felicity Jones, who plays Conor’s mother, delivers a heartfelt performance, capturing the essence of a loving parent facing her own mortality.

The film’s exploration of grief is both poignant and relatable. Conor’s struggle to come to terms with his mother’s illness is depicted with raw honesty. Through his interactions with the monster and the stories it tells, Conor learns valuable lessons about loss, forgiveness, and the complexity of human emotions.

Ultimately, “A Monster Calls” is a powerful and moving film that tackles the universal themes of grief and acceptance. It reminds us of the importance of storytelling as a means of understanding and processing our emotions. The movie’s ability to provoke deep introspection and evoke strong emotions makes it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

Last but not least:

Trust me this movie will take you by surprise if you thought it was a kid’s film. The story unfolds slowly so just allow yourself to be drawn into the plot allowing the writer and director to bring you to the conclusion. Having watched so many films and written a number of reviews myself, I have I have a hard time not getting ahead of the story. While the ending may not entirely surprise you like “The Sixth Sense”, it’s similar in the way it drops hints along the way.

While not a new film, having been released in 2016, it is available on Netflix. You can also stream A Monster Calls by renting or purchasing on Google Play, Amazon, and Vudu.

I highly recommend this film.