Best Female Action Heroes of Modern Cinema

September 22, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Female action heroes are a hot topic of debate among cinephiles. A number have argued that a female-led film won’t do good in the box office, while others have argued that the likes of Scarlett Johansson and Jennifer Lawrence have proven these critics wrong. In all honesty, female action heroes deserve the same credit as their male counterparts. Without their contribution, the film would be nothing but a typical hour-long testosterone rush.

To prove how important these women are, ExploreTalent has put together a list of the best female action heroes of the new generation:

7 Greatest Female Action Heroes in Cinemas

7. Angelina Jolie as Evelyn Salt in Salt (2010)

Even though Angelina Jolie played the more popular action movie icon Lara Croft for Tomb Raider, no one can deny that she stepped up her game for the spy-action thriller Salt. Jolie proved that she can jump through buildings, run away from CIA agents, and deal her character’s whirlwind of emotions throughout the movie.

6. Uma Thurman as The Bride in Kill Bill (2003–2004)

Uma Thurman is a versatile actress. You can cast her in any role and expect that she’ll deliver a great performance. This can be proven true by Thurman’s portrayal as the The Bride in Quentin Tarantino‘s Kill Bill series. As a woman out for revenge, she is absolutely ruthless and entertaining at the same time in the film.

5. Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games (2012)

You might be wondering why only The Hunger Games was mentioned above. Well, it is safe to say that Lawrence lost her touch as the film series went on, and Katniss Everdeen became more of a background character compared to the brave young girl from District 12 that audiences first fell in love with. Nonetheless, Katniss is still regarded as one of the most iconic female action heroes of all time and she is definitely on a par with the other women on this list.

4. Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe

It is high time that Black Widow gets her standalone movie because nobody has embodied her better than Scarlett Johansson did. As the Roman spy turned Avengers ally, Johansson’s character is quick-thinking, slick, and admirable, even without any special powers of her own!

3. Kate Beckinsale as Selene in Underworld (2003–2017)

With three Underworld movies and a new installment coming this 2017, Kate Beckinsale‘s Selene stands as one of the greatest female action heroes of the new generation. The best thing about Selene is that she has her eyes set out on destroying monsters and stops at nothing in doing so.

2. Milla Jovovich as Alice in Resident Evil (2002–2017)

Not everyone is a fan of the Resident Evil franchise, but the portrayal of Milla Jovovich as Rogue Umbrella agent Alice makes the film worth watching. The best thing about her character is that Alice is fearless, calculated, and compassionate at the same time. Jovovich is ready to hang the curtain for the said role as the franchise is set to deliver its final movie in January 2017.

1. Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia Organa in Star Wars (1977–1983, 2016–2017)

Princess Leia is a feminist icon, and she simply represents women empowerment in every way possible. She maintains being on the same level with Luke and Han Solo without the need to sacrifice her femininity, which makes her someone whom all young girls can look up to. After being introduced to audiences, Fisher has reprised her role as Princess Leia for the newest Star Wars movies and she still is a force to be reckoned with onscreen.

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ExploreTalent: 5 Movies Fit for Introverts

September 16, 2016September 29, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Introverts are known to have overly excited minds, but they tend to keep their thoughts to themselves when in public. Finding a relaxing medium is something that most introverts look forward to. Some may pick up a novel, and others catch a movie. Movies and novels feed the imagination of introverts by introducing characters that help us see the world through their eyes.

The movies you will find in this list are fit for introverts. They perfectly capture the feeling of being unintentionally drawn away from society. Extroverts may learn a thing or two from these movies as well, especially since a lot of them hold a certain stigma against introverts by assuming that they are rude. So for your viewing pleasure, check out the list of movies that perfectly capture what it is like to be an introvert.

Movies for Introverts

1. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

The movie centers around Charlie (Logan Lerman), an incoming freshman who was just discharged from a mental health facility. On his first few days of school, he finds it difficult to connect to his other classmates, but he eventually finds solace in two seniors Sam (Emma Watson) and her stepbrother Patrick (Ezra Miller). The two introduce Charlie to different high-school experiences such as parties, complicated relationships, and even drugs.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower shows everyone, not just teens and introverts, how difficult it can be to deal with your personal issues and connect with others at the same time. Director and writer Stephen Chbosky truly brings to light all these topics, as well as other themes like sexual abuse and gender issues.

2. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Director Wes Anderson is known for creating eccentric and socially awkward characters, so it is no surprise that the cast of The Royal Tenenbaums perfectly captured his signature style.

The Tenenbaum siblings grew up as overachievers but ended up failing later in life after their father, Royal, left the family. The movie shows us how our experiences during childhood can sometimes affect the way we interact with other people in the future. Since the Tenenbaum children are too busy honing their individual expertise, they are often isolated from society and never really get to experience a normal childhood.

3. Lars and the Real Girl (2004)

Ryan Gosling stars as Lars, a lonely man who tries to cope with his feelings by purchasing a sex doll on the Internet. He soon develops a relationship with the doll, even going as far as naming it Bianca and giving it a back story. At the advise of Lars’s therapist, his brother and sister-in-law agree to go along with it for his own sake.

Lars and the Real Girl may have been branded as a comedy, but its underlying themes of love and loss make watching it worthwhile.

4. Simple Simon (2010)

Eighteen-year-old Simon (Bill Skaarsgard) has Asperger’s syndrome and has difficulty interacting with others. The only person he seems to trust is his brother Sam. So Simon’s parents make the decision to have the teen live with him and his girlfriend in an attempt to have him break out of his shell. Things go sour when Sam’s girlfriend ends their relationship, stating she can no longer handle Simon around. Simon, being a creature of habit, ventures out into the world to find his brother a new girlfriend while building his own relationships.

Simple Simon became a hit upon its release in Sweden and even went on to become the country’s entry for Best Foreign Language Film during the 83rd Academy Awards. This whimsical movie delivers a lot of heart and it also provides insight on how some people with Asperger’s can be quite introverted.

5. Amelie (2001)

A young French girl named Amelie (Audrey Tautou) is impulsively diagnosed with a heart cognition by her own parents causing her to be isolated from the world as she grows up. This causes Amelie to be lonely and curious, so by the time she turns 18, she finally leaves home. The outside world proves to be just as eccentric as Amelie’s own imagination, but as the story goes on, she discovers that there are more things in life than choosing to just live in the comfort of her own thoughts.

French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet has successfully created a film that appeals to all, but Amelie serves as a love letter for introverts as it discusses the topic in an honest yet heartwarming way.

12 Effective Singing Tips

September 9, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Some singers have difficulty reaching high notes, some become hoarse or voice-tired after a long practice. Whether you are already a professional singer or still waiting for your star to shine, we have a few tips that can help you improve your voice.

1. Condition body before voice

It is advisable to warm up your body before singing. One of the best warm-up exercise is aerobics. This way, your body will be revitalized and your voice will be too. When you start sweating, it means you’re ready to belt out.

2. Don’t strain your voice

Just because you’ve warmed up doesn’t mean you can immediately sing high notes. Just take it slow, don’t force your voice; otherwise, you’ll damage your vocal chords. Remember to relax your facial muscles, shoulders, and neck, this will release the tension in your body and help you sound better.

3. Breathe properly

In singing, the air you’re exhaling needs to be controlled. You can do it by breathing from the diaphragm. You know you’re doing it correctly when you feel your tummy moving outward when you breathe in.

4. Don’t “take” a breath

This means don’t breathe intentionally before you sing. Notice how we don’t take a breath while we’re talking? That’s because our body instinctively knows beforehand the volume of air we need before we talk. The concept is the same. The reason for that is because when you breathe too much (maybe because you’re afraid you might run out of breath in the middle of your singing), it can put pressure in your chest, shoulders, and neck. Just think about the lyrics of your song and instinctively your body will get enough air for the phrase that you need to sing.

5. Eat and drink right

Believe it or not, your food and liquid intake can affect your voice. Caffeine is not exactly beneficial to singers like you. Cigarettes and alcohol aren’t either. Chocolates, milks, or any dairy product should be avoided before singing as these can cause mucous to accumulate. If thirsty before and after a performance, room temperature drinks rather than cold drinks are recommended.

6. Open your mouth

It’s not the front but the back of your mouth near the throat. The one you feel open when something is stuck in your mouth or when you’re yawning. The ideal mouth opening for singing is about three fingers between your teeth.

7. Know your voice range

It’s important for a singer to know his or her voice range. Yes, you have a great voice, but you’ll sound even better in your comfortable vocal range. Once you know your range, stay within that range. Don’t venture into trying higher notes to avoid damaging your vocal cord.

8. Speak on pitch

Singing should not be different as talking. For males, try to touch your Adam’s apple with your fingers; for females too, feel that area in your throat. That’s your larynx, it’s where your vocal cords come from. If you notice, that part moves up when you swallow and moves down when you yawn; but when you talk, it doesn’t move at all regardless of the pitch of your voice. That should be the same when you’re singing, so try to relax your larynx and sing like you’re talking to keep it still.

9. Bring out the right emotion

The trick is to understand the lyrics of your song, then imagine as if the story of the song is about yourself. Feel the emotion of the song and express it through your voice. That way, your performance will be more convincing, your voice more relaxed, and your mind is open like when you’re talking passionately.

10. Move your body

When expressing your passion, engage your whole body. Bend your knees, involve your quads while your upper body is relaxed and free.

11. Record yourself

This way, you can listen to yourself and observe your voice like it’s someone else’s. You may discover you don’t like the way you sound, but don’t be discouraged. Soon you’ll improve immensely as you’ll begin to notice some things you like about your voice.

12. Get a voice training

One of the best moves to become a better singer is to get a vocal training with a good voice coach. Singing is like playing sports, you need to practice regularly so your muscles—in this case your voice—can develop. A voice coach will teach you techniques that will improve your singing.

Most Spine-Tingling Short Horror Films Ever Released

September 1, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Do you happen to be on the hunt for a good horror movie but just don’t have the time for it? Lucky for you, there are a ton of scares that are delivered in short formats. In this article, ExploreTalent has scoured the Web in pursuit of the best horror short films ever released. Horror shorts are best for people who can’t stand a full hour of pure terror or for those who are simply looking for a quick scare. Another great thing about them is that a lot of these shorts are available for free streaming.

Note that the films listed here do not have a full length feature as of this writing, so do not expect movies like Lights Out or Evil Dead to be included. With that said, here are the most spine-tingling horror shorts that will probably keep you up at night.

1. Alma (2009)

If one were to hear the word Pixar, the first thing that comes to mind is the production company’s signature family friendly films. But 2009’s Alma was simply terrifying, and it was enough to make one wonder if it is safe to show to kids. But if you could look past the dark theme of the movie, then you’d realize that this one of the best short horror films ever made, mainly because of its concept that rivals that of Stephen King. The plot is pretty simple actually, it starts with an innocent child who walks into a doll store and things quickly turn sinister from there. Do not expect any jump-scares in this film, though, as it delivers nothing but pure horror.

Alma is said to be currently produced to be a full length feature, and the maestro of dark fantasy films Guillermo del Toro is attached to the project.

2. Bedtime Is at 10 (2016)

This short horror film is great for anyone who enjoys slow burning suspense, and it will most likely leave you looking behind your shoulder in the end. Like many horror shorts, it has a simple premise: a little girl is seen watching cartoons before bed. But little does this gutsy child know, somebody else is watching with her. The biggest strengths of Bedtime Is at 10 is its musical score at the end and great acting performance delivered by the young girl. So sit back, relax, and try not to sleep with the lights on tonight.

3. The Whistler (2013)

The Whistler is definitely one short horror film that deserves to be transformed into a full-length feature. There are a lot of unanswered plot holes that weren’t addressed throughout its entire duration. One good question here was, what was the whole motive of the monster? And why did it choose to do what it did in the end? But then again, that is horror short’s only drawback, which is pretty understandable considering six minutes is not enough to explain everything to audiences.

Without spoiling anything, it is safe to say that the scariest part of this short horror film does not immediately dawn to you while you’re watching it. Instead, it happens at night when you’re wondering who or what could be staring at you right at that very moment.

4. Welcome to the Circus (2016)

The Web anthology series Scary Endings truly lived up to its name with the release of Welcome to the Circus. Audiences will immediately appreciate its brilliant concept, which centers around a distressed aunt haunted by a clown straight out of her nephew’s Jack in the Box. The minute the poor woman notices that the toy is not what it seems, all hell breaks loose.

Fans of the movie It will feel nostalgic over the sinister clown as it does bear a close resemblance to Tim Curry‘s Pennywise. Between the fast-paced horror sequence and the desperate attempt of the main characters to survive is a climax that will make you crave for even more Scary Endings episodes.

5. Pictured (2014)

If you thought David Sandberg‘s Lights Out was terrifying enough, wait until you see his follow-up horror short Pictured. The film’s plot pretty much follows its predecessor. In fact, it stars the same woman investigating an eerie hallway. But this time, the scares are courtesy of a terrifying photograph with a story to tell.

Pictured does not focus on cheap jump-scares, instead you can rely on a great story that will probably leave you aching for a full length feature.

ExploreTalent: 5 Stylish Thrillers to Watch If You Liked ‘Drive’

August 2, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

The 2011 movie Drive was an unexpected hit. Aside from the fact that it had The Notebook lead actor Ryan Gosling starring in the film, it still was relatively unknown until festival season rolled in. The movie garnered buzz after it premiered in the Cannes Film Festival, with many critics praising Danish director Nicolas Winding Refn‘s artistic style and keen sense to detail. He was later awarded as that year’s Best Director.

Drive found itself on lists that counted the best movies of 2011, including a number one spot in Rolling Stone magazine and The Chicago Sun Times.

The movie centers around an unnamed character (played by Gosling) who works as a Los Angeles stunt driver and moonlights as a getaway driver at the same time. The film is classified under the neo-noir crime genre and is set against a backdrop of Los Angeles during the 80s.

The visuals alone are enough to make one appreciate the movie, and it has the right combination of violence and tension to reel audiences in. So if you happen to be a fan of Drive, then you might want to check out these stylish thrillers brought to you by ExploreTalent:

1. The Driver (1978, Walter Hill)

The Driver is perhaps the most closely associated film with Drive. They practically have the same story, each pertaining to an unnamed getaway driver in the neon-colored Los Angeles streets. But this is where the similarities end as in The Driver, Ryan O’ Neal‘s character is going against the dirty tactics of the law.

Bruce Dern plays the investigator who is obsessed with taking the driver down, even if it means staging an entrapment that might threaten his own career.

2. The Place Beyond the Pines (2012, Derek Cianfrance)

Once again, Ryan Gosling proves his versatility as an actor in The Place Beyond The Pines. In this crime drama, he stars as Luke, a motorcycle stuntman (quite similar to his role in Drive) who wants to provide for his family, so he starts robbing banks. As a result of his actions, the mother of his son refuses to make contact with him and a police officer (Bradly Cooper) is hot on his heels. After a series of conflicts and gritty action scenes, it is Luke’s son that suffers the consequences the most.

Overall, The Place Beyond the Pines is a great film fueled by a wonderful ensemble cast and an equally compelling story line.

3. Thief (1981, Michael Mann)

American film director Michael Mann‘s debut feature is an ambitious crime thriller that delivers all the goods. The reason it is included on this list is because the movie Drive has undoubtedly incorporated the same neon-lit streets and thrilling choreographed action scenes that Thief has.

The film centers around Frank, a seasoned criminal who was supposed to settle down when he is offered a job he could not resist. That job happened to involve the Los Angeles mafia and is both dangerous yet extremely rewarding.

4. The Warriors (1979, Walter Hill)

One thing that made the movie Drive so memorable was its synth-heavy background music, something that was also rampant during the stylish days of the 1980s. So it was only fitting to include an early film that utilized the same background music as Drive.

The Warriors is often regarded as one of the greatest cult action films of all time as it introduces viewers to a dystopian New York City under the rule of vicious street gangs. The protagonists are a gang who are framed for murder, they then need to return to their home turf while dodging an army of cops and rival gangs.

5. Bullitt (1968, Peter Yates)

There is no doubt that Drive‘s nameless protagonist mirrors the tough guy demeanor of Frank Bullitt. Steve McQueen plays the titular character, and it is easy to see that Refn most likely got his inspiration from the likes of both McQueen and Clint Eastwood.

Bullitt is an antihero all throughout the film since he displays a stone cold attitude who relentlessly solves cases even if he has to resort to violent methods.

One of the most notable parts of the film is a ten-minute long car chase sequence, which was named as McQueen’s most iconic performance throughout his career.

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Top 5 Movies That Accurately Describe Depression

July 14, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Art is clearly imitating real life in these honest movies that tackle on a rather sensitive topic: depression.

Depression is described as a state wherein daily activities become difficult, constant anxiety is experienced and it ultimately affects the person’s well-being and their will to go on with life. Whether diagnosed or not, depression is very real and is something that many people should seek help for.

In cinema, there has been a variety of movies that get the subject right and don’t sugarcoat it like most mainstream films do. Many of these plots are driven by those who choose to keep their depression a secret, and oftentimes the characters are artists or young people who go through a period wherein people have a hard time trying to comprehend with. The movies aren’t always told with a gloomy tone, some even use comedy to depict how life continues to go on, no matter how hard it is for the protagonist to move along with it. Regardless of how they are made, these movies were all brutally honest yet beautifully crafted.

Check out ExploreTalent’s list of top movies that accurately tackle on depression:

1. Sylvia (2003)

This British biographical film is about acclaimed poets Sylvia Plath (author of The Bell Jar and played by Gwyneth Paltrow) and her relationship with fellow poet Ted Hughes (Daniel Craig). Like many relationships, they started out with so much potential but gradually drifted apart after episodes of infidelity committed by Hughes. It ultimately concluded with Plath’s suicide after dealing with depression for so many years. The film, however, does not accurately depict what had transpired during their marriage as Plath never did admit her mental condition to her husband.

Throughout her young life, she battled with depression and her feelings of betrayal throughout her marriage had only intensified her sadness. The movie explores what contributed to her death and how cases of depression can sometimes turn into something as heartbreaking as suicide.

2. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

The black comedy film Little Miss Sunshine went on to receive critical acclaim and several film awards including an Oscar for Alan Arkin as best supporting actor. It talks about a family that is composed of amusing characters including young actress Abigail Breslin as Olive, a little girl who joins the Little Miss Sunshine pageant, and Steve Carell as her homosexual uncle who has repeatedly tried to kill himself.

The whole family packs up to leave for California where the pageant is held in the now iconic yellow Volkswagen van. Over the course of their road trip, they have to deal with their own issues while trying to remain positive for Olive.

The whole movie is equally funny and heartbreaking, and it teaches the audiences a lesson about how we can all learn to see the burdens of life in a different way through the eyes of an innocent child.

3. Wristcutters: A Love Story (2006)

The main protagonist, Zia, commits suicide at very start of the film. It then cuts to a certain afterlife, where he meets people who committed suicide as well. There are a slew of interesting characters in the movie, including the people Zia befriends in this limbo world: Eugene, a man who lives with his family who committed suicide as well, and Zia’s love interest in the film, a girl named Mikal.

Despite the fantastical elements, the movie does not steer away from the reality of suicide and the feeling of regret and hopelessness that comes along with it.

4. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

When Charlie (played by Percy Jackson actor Logan Lerman) enters his first day of high school, he is haunted by the suicide of his friend Michael, who killed himself just a year before. There he encounters Patrick (Ezra Miller), who is involved in a secret relationship with the school’s star football player and his cousin Sam (Emma Watson), whom Charlie develops a crush on.

This heartfelt story is based on the novel of the same name written by author Stephen Chbosky. Over the course of the movie, the audience will get a glimpse of Charlie’s struggles and how the many things that have transpired in his life triggered his constant panic attacks.

5. It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)

The 2007 film It’s Kind of a Funny Story is based on another young adult book, this time written by the late Ned Vizzini. Vizzini suffered depression as well and committed suicide three years after the movie was shown.

Just like the book, the movie had a comedic tone to it. It follows teenager Craig (Keir Gilchrist), who checks himself in a mental facility after he contemplates suicide by jumping off the Brooklyn Bridge. There, Craig meets the other patients of the ward and finds solace through their companionship.

The movie does not focus on depression being caused by strained relationship or any events that could have triggered it but mostly talks about how the pressures of life can sometimes be overwhelming.

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ExploreTalent: Horror Movies Derived from Literary Classics

July 8, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Film and literature have gone hand in hand over the years. Together, they have helped weave imaginations and gave audiences the kind of entertainment they deserve. There are numerous horror movies that have gotten inspiration from literary masterpieces. These stories, which are set during the romantic era, make for perfect plot and stunning scenes. The gothic yet romantic feel definitely makes a pleasurable viewing experience, so it is no wonder that filmmakers turn to the past to create stories for the future generation.

But do know that not all horror movies got their start from ghoulish tales. In fact, a few of them come from fairy tales or tragedies. Familiarize with some of these films by checking out the list brought to you by ExploreTalent:

1. Interview with a Vampire (1994)

The Anne Rice classic gets its big screen treatment in the 1994 film starring Hollywood heavyweights Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Antonio Banderas, and Kirsten Dunst. Cruise takes the role of one of the most iconic villains of all time: Lestat the vampire.

The dynamic on-screen chemistry of Pitt and Cruise may have received mixed reviews and even got a Razzie for Worst On-Screen Couple, but the movie still went on to be both a critical and financial success. Ten years later, a sequel entitled The Queen of the Damned was released to cinemas but did not do as well as its predecessor did.

2. Murders in the Rue Morgue (1932)

Edgar Allan Poe is known for his tales of both mystery and macabre and he has a made a slew of stories under this theme throughout his career. But what Poe also contributed to literature was that when he created The Murders in the Rue Morgue and brought to life the detective genre as well.

The 1932 film, however, bears little resemblance to the actual book, but it still does include grisly murders, orangutans, and a lot of mystery.

3. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (2006)

Many might argue that the original 1886 novella written by Robert Louis Stevenson was in no way a horror story. But looking back at the story line, the double persona that Dr. Jekyll has to go through explores the greatest horror that humans have ever known: that dark—often sinister—side that many keep to themselves.

The 2006 adaptation featured horror movie staple Tony Todd as both doctor and his feral alter ego. The movie failed to retell the literary classic and focused more on gore and violence so it could appeal to modern audiences.

**4. The Exorcist (1973)**

There is something about a demonic possession that disturbs audiences but draws them in at the same time. The Exorcist, which was written by William Peter Blatty, follows a young girl who is possessed by a demon and the two priests that are racing against time and risking their lives to save her.

The movie version, which came just two years after, is often regarded as one of the most famous horror movies of all time. By 2000, the movie was re-released to audiences. It has since then inspired a slew of possession-themed films over the years and is definitely something that movie lovers should not skip.

5. Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

When it comes to vampire movies or television series involving a similar theme, no one has seemed to have outdone the 1992 film Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Based on the 1897 novel from Bram Stroker himself, this movie became an international hit and has continued to bedazzle audiences everywhere. It does help that acclaimed director Francis Ford Coppola was the one behind the movie as his story telling proves to appeal to different generations. What is great about this film is that it does not attempt to dehumanize Dracula but shows audiences what caused him to resort to bloodthirsty ways.

6. The Shining (1980)

Perhaps, there’s nothing more terrifying haunted hotel–themed movie than The Shining. The movie was based on the novel of the same name written by one of this generation’s most notable authors, Stephen King.

In The Shining, Jack Nicholson plays the character Jack Torrance who is haunted by the ghosts of mountain isolated hotel after he takes the job to be the caretaker. Today, the movie is regarded as one of the greatest horror classics of all time and has become a staple in popular culture.

Most Expensive Films Ranked from Worst to Worth Watching

July 8, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Despite the threat of Netflix taking over, movies continue to be an unstoppable force in the entertainment industry. When talking about massive and not to mention expensive films, audiences still find a way to clamor around cinemas to see the movie unfold through a supersized screen.

But unfortunately, big budgets do not automatically translate to massive returns or favorable reviews. See the most expensive films ranked from bad to worth watching brought to you by ExploreTalent:

10. Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)

Budget: $210 million

Metacritic: 32%

Rotten Tomatoes: 18%

IMDb: 5.7/10

The fourth installment of the Transformers franchise was just a bore fest filled with nothing but CGI robots fighting each other. Despite the low reviews, it still went on to be one of the most successful movies of 2014, hitting box-office sales of $1.104 billion worldwide.

9. John Carter (2012)

Budget: $263.7 million

Metacritic: 51%

Rotten Tomatoes: 51%

IMDb: 6.6/10

The movie John Carter is infamously known to be the biggest box-office bombs in history. But it isn’t the worst film on this list because it has a more interesting story line than Transformers: Age of Extinction, and it also helps that it did a good amount of justice to the book that it was based on amid stunning cinematic visuals.

8. Minions (2015)

Budget: $74 million

Rotten Tomatoes: 55%

IMDb: 6.4/10

Minions were first introduced through the Despicable Me movies as the adorable but clumsy assistants to evil mastermind Gru. They finally got their self titled “origin” movie that was released last 2015. The movie was not quite a hit with the critics, but they did manage to reel in audiences, earning over a billion dollars in the box office.

7. Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Budget: $200 million

Rotten Tomatoes: 52%

IMDb: 6.5/10

Despite showcasing a strong cast and a jaw-dropping CGI filled recreation of Wonderland, 2010’s adaptation of the iconic Lewis Carroll book was not as astonishing as the original movie. Disney did do a good job by having Tim Burton direct Alice in Wonderland, though, as his signature filmmaking skills resonated throughout the film. But this sits far from standards of the recent live action movies that the production company has been coming out with, and the 2016 sequel did not seem to fare any better.

6. Avatar (2009)

Budget: $237 million

Metacritic: 83%

Rotten Tomatoes: 83%

IMDb: 7.9/10

James Cameron‘s Avatar surpassed his own hit Titanic in the box office. The graphics and gripping plot were enough to reel audiences in. But many have argued that the story line had been borrowed from that of Pocahontas with American settlers looking to conquer foreign lands for resources. Whether Cameron took inspiration from that movie or not, no one can argue that Avatar continues to be one of the most compelling films in cinematic history.

5. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows II (2011)

Budget: $250 million

Metacritic: 87%

Rotten Tomatoes: 96%

IMDb: 8.1/10

After the Harry Potter franchise ended, most young adult book adaptations failed to gain as much momentum as it did. The last movie proved to be the perfect film to wrap the whole story line up with and their efforts were not in vain. Fans gave a well-deserved good-bye and thank you to what can only be the best movie of the series.

4. Jurassic Park (1993)

Budget: $379 million

Metacritic: 59%

Rotten Tomatoes: 72%

IMDb: 7.1/10

No doubt about it, Jurassic Park is easily one of Steven Spielberg‘s most well-loved masterpiece. The movie gave a terrifying look into what happens when humans mess up with nature, and not to mention introduce the world to the wrath of an angry Tyrannosaurus Rex and an equally terrifying pack of velociraptors.

3. Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015)

Budget: $306 million

Rotten Tomatoes: 92%

IMDb: 7.1/10

Fans of the Star Wars franchise were pretty pleased at this reboot after that highly criticized prequels released a decade ago. The Force was literally awakened by this film as it stayed true to the original story line and even featured iconic characters such as Han Solo, Princess Leia, and even the lovable Chewbaca while introducing new players to the plot.

2. Marvel’s The Avengers (2012)

Budget: $220 million

Metacritic: 69%

Rotten Tomatoes: 92%

IMDb: 8.1/10

The 2016 film Captain America Civil War came close to taking this spot, but everyone would agree that this was the film that started it all. The cinematic masterpiece that was The Avengers introduced the new generation to a league of superheroes, and while it may have naturally spawned a sequel, nothing really beats the original.

1. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Budget: $93 million

Metacritic: 92%

Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

IMDb: 8.8/10

Ironically, the best expensive film on this list uses half the budget of most of the movies here. But that did not stop the first installment of the Lord of the Rings franchise from becoming the best epic fantasy film to date. So far, no movie has ever surpassed this book adaptation, which garnered several accolades including four Academy Awards that year. So far, its reboot prequel The Hobbit has not been as well received and only received success because of the legacy it rides on.

The Most Unforgettable Movie Scenes of All Time

July 7, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

A strong story line is the back bone of a great film. The screenplay comes in at close second while the acting, editing, and other technical details follow. But one thing people often take note of is that one scene that audiences won’t stop chattering about as soon as they leave the cinema. These can sometimes even be better than the entire movie itself.

ExploreTalent has put up a list of the most unforgettable movie scenes of all time. Find out if your pick made it in the list below:

1. American History X

Scene: Say good night

This movie gave Edward Norton an Oscar nomination and it was a well-deserved one. In the film, Norton plays a young man named Derek who practices neo-Nazism and influences his younger brother to do the same. Together they fall into a life of crime involving racism and even murder.

The whole movie was filled with shocking scenes, including the brutal rape and beating of Derek during his time in jail by fellow neo-Nazis. But another scene that had audiences at the edge of their seat was Derek taking revenge on the men who stole his truck in a rather violent outburst. He comes to the point where he pins one of the thugs to the curb and crushes his teeth as his younger brother watches. It immediately makes the audience question why anyone would go that far in response of a stolen truck. This particular scene displays Derek’s white supremacy and how the same beliefs lead to his own downfall.

2. Silence of the Lambs

Scene: Pitch black

It is no question that Hannibal Lecter is the most terrifying fictional serial killer of all time. But people often forget that Buffalo Bill was the main antagonist of the film Silence of the Lambs, and he happened to be a part of one of the most thrilling movie scenes of all time.

When FBI agent Clarice Starling (Jodi Foster) is unwittingly lured to Buffalo Bill’s lair, she finds herself blind when he cuts the power out. What happens next is a deeply unsettling scene that audience can view through Bill’s night vision goggles. However, Starling proves to be the gifted agent that she was sought out to be and ultimately gets the upper hand.

3. Toy Story 3

Scene: Incinerator scene

This entry may raise some eyebrows as both Pixar and Disney have to be the most family-friendly production studios out there. But in Toy Story 3, one particular scene had the audiences biting their nails, even the adults! That is the infamous incinerator scene where Woody and the other toys that were loved since childhood almost met their fiery doom. The toys held hands—and there probably wasn’t a dry eye in the audience as many were convinced that this was the end of the Toy Story series. But as fate (and Disney magic) would have it, they were rescued by a blinding light and by characters that have been in the story line since the very beginning. It is not only an interesting twist but a very satisfying one that proves that Pixar is definitely a force to be reckoned with.

4. Se7en

Scene: The Box

The movie Se7en has been dubbed as one of the best neo-noir thrillers in film history. All of the movie scenes involve a shocking death depicting each of the seven deadly scenes. As soon as Detectives Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and his hotheaded yet quick-thinking partner Mills (Brad Pitt) capture John Doe (Kevin Spacey), they are led through a series of mind games, which conclude in a dessert where they are presented with a mysterious box.

Mills ultimately becomes a victim himself as he plays out the last deadly sin, wrath, after violently shooting John Doe. It is pretty understandable why this character did so, but it left audiences at awe on how gripping the whole scene was that many forgot that they were only acting.

5. Full Metal Jacket

Scene: Pyle’s death

Every film buff knows that Stanley Kubrick is more than capable of creating a masterpiece, and one of his most notable works is Full Metal Jacket, which centers around a platoon of marines throughout their training period. While the movie is full of groundbreaking movie scenes, seeing the character Pyle (Vincent D’ Onofrio) succumb to his mental breakdown was particularly heartbreaking and terrifyingly brutal at the same time.

The whole scene plays out as Private “Joker” is confronted by Pyle in the bathrooms. The latter is in a dangerous state of mind and has live ammunition in tow. It just showed how much the bullying Pyle had undergone throughout the film had finally taken its toll. Their sergeant steps in and yells at Pyle to pull himself together, but it is unsuccessful as Pyle shoots him anyway, and just as the audience gears up to see Joker shot as well, Pyle turns the rifle to himself.

Stars of ‘Game of Thrones’ Reveal Their Diet and Fitness Secrets

July 7, 2016July 7, 2016 Holly Leave a comment

Game of Thrones has to be the biggest and most popular show in television. A part of its success can be credited to the extraordinary cast members. After all, shooting a medieval-themed television series is both physically and mentally demanding especially with the long hours spent on the set. To cope up with this, most of the stars follow healthy diet regimes and workouts to be fit at all times.

ExploreTalent has rounded up the fitness secrets of different Game of Thrones stars. Find out how they stay in shape below.

1. Hafþór Júlíus “Thor” Björnsson (The Mountain)

In the series, The Mountain is a fearsome presence; and with a physique like that, it is easy to see why. While Björnsson is certainly nowhere near as violent as his Game of Thrones counterpart, he still is intimidating to look at. Other than appearing in the HBO show, Björnsson participates in the World’s Strongest Man competition and often ends up as a constant front runner.

Björnsson practices natural exercise methods, such as lifting traditional weight. But it should be noted that the weight he lifts is more than what the average man can take. His diet is not for the fainthearted as well, so it is best to consult a licensed health expert before following it. Björnsson’s “light” breakfast consists of eight eggs, 200 grams of oats, and a variety of strawberries, avocados, and blueberries. To get a full list of his diet, check out his official Facebook post.

2. Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark)

This striking redhead started off young in the series, but audiences had the delight of watching her bloom to a beautiful lady. Sophie Turner, whose recently starred in X-Men:Apocalypse where she played the mutant Jean Grey, needed to shape up for the part.

Turner’s training involved hill sprints and kettle bells, which took more than 60 minutes for six days a week. In the June issue of Self magazine, Turner shared that exercise has made her feel more positive and less self-conscious about her body. As for her diet, the English actress stated that she had adopted a “healthy lifestyle.”

“I’ve really embraced healthy eating,” she told the magazine. “It makes you feel a lot better and more energetic. I’m inspired to get up and out.”

3. Jason Momoa (Khal Drogo)

Even with his character killed after just one season, fans could not get enough of Jason Momoa. The actor has always been known for his muscular build, but upon getting numerous movie and television roles like Khal Drogo, Conan the Barbarian, and a part in the upcoming Aquaman movie, Momoa needed to build even more muscle.

Momoa followed the Accelerated Results 7 (AR 7) developed by fitness expert Eric Laciste. The high-intensity workout focuses on weight training and involved short rest intervals.

4. Kit Harington (Jon Snow)

Jon Snow knows nothing, but Kit Harington definitely knows fitness. The 29-year-old actor finds himself garbed in layers of coats and armor in the show, but beneath all that is one of the most impressive physiques in the entire show. Looks like it is not an easy job trying to train the world’s most popular bastard, as Harrington’s workout is far from the ordinary weight training many individuals endure.

His coach, Dalton Wong, told Men’s Journal that Harington’s routine is modeled after actual things he would do on set, so it involves a ton of full body movements rather than isolation exercises. Wong focused on strength training workouts, which are aimed at strengthening his back, glutes, and legs. Some examples incorporated in Harrington’s 60-minute sessions include deadlifts, lunges, and cable routines that are similar to swinging a sword.

5. Natalie Dormer (Margaery Tyrell)

Natalie Dormer has already been a household name before she appeared in Game of Thrones, and she is well known for her fit body. Dormer stays in shape by running, yoga, swimming, and is always keen to try new fitness activities. She happens to be a fan of juicing as well, which helps rid the body of harmful toxins.

After starring in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Dormer revealed that running while carrying semiautomatic rifles proved to be a grueling workout. She was also able to compete in the 2014 London Marathon, and she shared with Self magazine that she was both amazed and proud of her feat.