Moviez4U

Tag: Jonah Hill

  • How To Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)

    How To Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)

    Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

    This 3D animated gem is definitely better than the first—and I’m here for it. The animation, as always, is stunning. The mix of past and present elements is spot on, and while I’m not totally sure what to call the relationships (maybe “young love” or just a little romance?), it was sweet. I was grinning through the whole movie, especially when I got to admire the gorgeous digital artwork. Even when the movie took a sad turn (which was needed and done really well), I couldn’t help but be amazed by the animation. DreamWorks took a pretty bold step here—usually, it’s Disney pulling the big emotional punches, so I was impressed with the risk they took.

    Visually, the graphics were fantastic, but there were a few little things that could have been smoother. Some textures, like hair and armor, didn’t flow as nicely as the rest of the animation. It felt like they spent so much time on the grand scale—the swooping camera angles, the dynamic glides, the whole “perspective enhancement” for the audience—that they missed out on details like the texture of scales or the way hair moves. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

    The plot was solid, everything made sense, and DreamWorks nailed the balance between excitement, fun, and heart. The mom storyline, though a bit too perfect, didn’t bother me too much because, hey, it’s DreamWorks and they’re aiming for a younger audience.

    Now, let’s talk about the villain—Drago Bloodfist. Sure, he’s the bad guy, but I had one question: Where did he come from? The film does explain his backstory a little, but honestly, I felt like we needed more. When he talks about losing his family to dragons and seeking revenge, I was hoping for a brief flashback to really understand his motivations. Just hearing him say it wasn’t enough for me. It didn’t quite land the way it could’ve.

    But that’s really my only gripe. If you love flying dragon-riders, evolving friendships, and moments that mix laughter with heartache, then this movie is definitely worth a watch. And if you’re not sure? Watch it anyway—it’s awesome.

    Edit: Can we talk about that dragon during the “war” sequence? The one that lit itself on fire and rolled around like a flaming wheel? Seriously, so cool.

  • 22 Jump Street (2014)

    22 Jump Street (2014)

    Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

    I haven’t laughed this hard at a movie in years. Like, actually had to pause it because I was wheezing. This is peak buddy-cop comedy—somehow even better than the first one, and that’s saying something.

    The plot? Basically 21 Jump Street but in college. Jenko (Channing Tatum) and Schmidt (Jonah Hill) go undercover (again) to bust a new drug called “WhyPhy” (which, yes, is exactly as stupid as it sounds). What follows is a ridiculous, self-aware, borderline-parody of college movies, bromance tropes, and even its own franchise. The fact that the movie knows it’s recycling the same premise just makes it funnier—like when Ice Cube’s Captain Dickson yells, “DO THE SAME THING AS LAST TIME! EVERYBODY’S HAPPY!”

    But what really makes it work? The chemistry between Hill and Tatum. Their “bro-ship” is the heart of the movie, and the way their dynamic gets tested (Jenko joining the frat bros, Schmidt falling for a girl) actually adds some real emotional weight—before they inevitably wreck everything in the most hilarious way possible.

    And the jokes? Relentless. From Schmidt’s terrible undercover name (“Jeffrakah”) to the entire spring break sequence (“MY NAME’S JEFF!“), this movie doesn’t let up. Plus, the end credits? Absolute genius. They mock every possible sequel idea (22 Jump Street: Medical School? 22 Jump Street: Space?!), and honestly? I’d watch all of them.

    Final Verdict: If you like comedies that don’t take themselves seriously (and can handle some very dumb but brilliant humor), this is a must-watch. It’s rare for a sequel to double down on the absurdity and stick the landing, but 22 Jump Street pulls it off.

    Best for: Fans of 21 Jump Street, The Other Guys, or anyone who’s ever wanted to see Channing Tatum do backflips off a balcony.

    (P.S. The post-credits scene is essential. Trust me.)