HOP - X-Men: First Class and Super 8

Finally, a hop where both movies are something to write about.  In a good way!  I could go on and on about these two films, but I will try and keep it short and sweet for you.

X-MEN: FIRST CLASS - This was a surprisingly good movie.  James McAvoy did a smashing job as young Professor X, and had a slew of solid supporters including Kevin Bacon and Michael Fassbender.  What I like best about prequels is that it's always interesting to get the chance to go back with characters you have grown to know through previous movies and see how they were in the beginning.  This film delivers just that, providing the background needed to round out the other X-Men movies nicely.

SUPER 8 - The gem of the night was this film; it contained all the aspects that in my opinion make a good movie - believable acting (at least on the kids' part), relatable characters, engaging story, well-timed pacing, and balanced portions of explosions, mystery, humor, and sincere emotion.  Besides the story itself being well-written, the dialogue was also natural and had a certain charming flow.  I can honestly say that I was highly entertained by this movie from start to finish.  Well, almost-finish, as the end with the "selectively chosen metals" and overacted hugging was a bit much hahah  But yes, I can confidently say that I would recommend this movie to [almost] everyone.