Volume 5
The 5th addition to my movie reviews!
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106 titles
- DirectorSteven SpielbergStarsJeff GoldblumJulianne MoorePete PostlethwaiteA research team is sent to the Jurassic Park Site B island to study the dinosaurs there, while an InGen team approaches with another agenda.I thought the film had too many cookie-cutter characters, pointless scenes, a childish message, and an annoying desire to prove itself bigger and better.
- DirectorJoe JohnstonStarsSam NeillWilliam H. MacyTéa LeoniA decidedly odd couple with ulterior motives convince Dr. Grant to go to Isla Sorna for a holiday, but their unexpected landing startles the island's new inhabitants.It's still a bad movie, but was definitely easy to watch due to the fact that it pretty much just gave up and delivered a simple formula.
- DirectorMike FlanaganStarsJohn Gallagher Jr.Kate SiegelMichael TruccoA deaf and mute writer who retreated into the woods to live a solitary life must fight for her life in silence when a masked killer appears at her window.A gripping and original rush of a home invasion thriller that gives us a great lead along with a lot of suspenseful, if not, badass scenes.
- DirectorStephen DaldryStarsThomas HornTom HanksSandra BullockA nine-year-old amateur inventor, Francophile, and pacifist searches New York City for the lock that matches a mysterious key left behind by his father, who died in the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.Though one or two moments stick out, there's still Oscar bait, awkward performances, plot holes, and unexplained elements all over the movie.
- DirectorRichard DonnerStarsMel GibsonDanny GloverGary BuseyTwo newly paired cops who are complete opposites must put aside their differences in order to catch a gang of drug smugglers.Has great action sequences but doesn't shy away from emotion, creating a very profound and believable relationship between the two leads.
- DirectorRichard DonnerStarsMel GibsonDanny GloverJoe PesciRiggs and Murtaugh are on the trail of South African diplomats who are using their immunity to engage in criminal activities.A sequel with admirable ambition to make itself deeper and darker while maintaining good character relations, even if the story can be unfocused at times.
- DirectorRichard DonnerStarsMel GibsonDanny GloverJoe PesciMartin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh pursue a former LAPD officer who uses his knowledge of police procedure and policies to steal and sell confiscated guns and ammunition to local street gangs.While there are awesome moments occasionally, it also feels like the movie went on auto pilot, making the experience feel more phoned in and silly.
- DirectorRichard DonnerStarsMel GibsonDanny GloverJoe PesciWith personal crises and age weighing in on them, LAPD officers Riggs and Murtaugh must contend with deadly Chinese triads that are trying to free their former leaders out of prison and onto American soil.Though the film is unfocused and feels very recycled, the last 20 minutes really show the passion that went into these movies, even if they weren't all the best.
- DirectorAlbert BrooksStarsAlbert BrooksMeryl StreepRip TornIn an afterlife way-station resembling a major city, the lives of the recently deceased are examined in a court-like setting.On one hand, it's just a basic love story that doesn't try anything new, while on the other, it's a funny and creative movie that I enjoyed overall.
- DirectorSam LiuStarsKevin ConroyMark HamillTara StrongAs Batman hunts for the escaped Joker, the Clown Prince of Crime attacks the Gordon family to prove a diabolical point mirroring his own fall into madness.Though the actual "Killing Joke" was fine on its own, the first 30 minutes really threw me off guard and left me confused throughout the movie.
- DirectorKeenen Ivory WayansStarsAnna FarisJon AbrahamsMarlon WayansA year after disposing of the body of a man they accidentally killed, a group of dumb teenagers are stalked by a bumbling serial killer.I enjoyed this movie when it was smart and new, and though not all the humor works for me, it's still just being its own thing.
- DirectorQuentin TarantinoStarsSamuel L. JacksonKurt RussellJennifer Jason LeighIn the dead of a Wyoming winter, a bounty hunter and his prisoner find shelter in a cabin currently inhabited by a collection of nefarious characters.This movie had me floored with its amazing suspense coupled with great performances tied together through a riveting mystery.
- DirectorPaul GreengrassStarsMatt DamonTommy Lee JonesAlicia VikanderThe CIA's most dangerous former operative is drawn out of hiding to uncover more explosive truths about his past.Though it was a well directed and acted action flick, two major things were needed: 1. a steady camera 2. a steady story
- DirectorMark WatersStarsZoey DeutchLucy FryDanila KozlovskiyRose Hathaway is a Dhampir, half human-half vampire, a guardian of the Moroi, peaceful, mortal vampires living discreetly within our world. Her calling is to protect the Moroi from bloodthirsty, immortal Vampires, the Strigoi.This is one of those movies that's so forcefully dated and clearly confused that it's really hard not to laugh at its stupidity.
- DirectorConrad VernonGreg TiernanStarsSeth RogenKristen WiigJonah HillA sausage leads a group of supermarket products on a journey to discover the truth about their existence and what really happens when they are picked off the shelf.Wasn't as smart and hilarious as I was hoping for, but it did deliver some creativity, good voice acting, and some shockingly hilarious moments.
- DirectorRichard LinklaterStarsJason LondonWiley WigginsMatthew McConaugheyThe adventures of high school and junior high students on the last day of school in May 1976.With little story structure, this film successfully fuses its performances, sets, music, and direction into a rebellious, laid back experience.
- DirectorHenry JoostAriel SchulmanStarsStephen DunhamKatie FeatherstonMatt ShivelyIt has been five years since the disappearance of Katie and Hunter, and a suburban family witness strange events in their neighborhood when a woman and a mysterious child move in.There were one or two good performances, but the film felt very tired and didn't deliver enough quality scares to make it worth while.
- DirectorRupert WainwrightStarsTom WellingMaggie GraceSelma BlairA thick mist full of vengeful spirits haunts a prosperous island town off the coast of Oregon, as its inhabitants try to learn their town's dark secret in order to stop it.I've never seen the original, but if it's anything like this boring, dated, obnoxious waste of time, I won't be viewing it anytime soon.
- DirectorSam RaimiStarsBruce CampbellEllen SandweissRichard DeManincorFive friends travel to a cabin in the woods, where they unknowingly release flesh-possessing demons.It may be cheaply made and pretty silly, but the movie's true colors lie in the absolutely creative madness it has in store for the viewer.
- DirectorAlessandro CarloniJennifer Yuh NelsonStarsJack BlackBryan CranstonDustin HoffmanContinuing his "legendary adventures of awesomeness", Po must face two hugely epic, but different threats: one supernatural and the other a little closer to home.This film cements this solid trilogy by giving us those wonderful aspects (great animation, heartfelt drama, great humor) you'd expect to see in a Kung Fu Panda movie by now.
- DirectorRichard CurtisStarsHugh GrantMartine McCutcheonLiam NeesonFollows the lives of eight very different couples in dealing with their love lives in various loosely interrelated tales all set during a frantic month before Christmas in London, England.You feel the message of the film and there are good stories told, but the movie should have focused on just those couple of stories.
- DirectorSteve RashStarsPauly ShoreCarla GuginoLane SmithHaving gotten a taste of college life, a drastically changed farm girl returns home for Thanksgiving break with her best friend, a flamboyant party animal who is clearly a fish out of water in a small farm town.This movie is not only rushed and unfunny, but Shore is so obnoxious that the only thing I have to be thankful for is never having to see this film again.
- DirectorJon FavreauStarsNeel SethiBill MurrayBen KingsleyAfter a threat from the tiger Shere Khan forces him to flee the jungle, a man-cub named Mowgli embarks on a journey of self discovery with the help of panther Bagheera and free-spirited bear Baloo.It looked amazing and there was a good conflict between the hero and villain, but I was underwhelmed at the lack of care I had for most of the characters.
- DirectorClay KaytisFergal ReillyStarsJason SudeikisJosh GadDanny McBrideWhen an island populated by happy, flightless birds is visited by mysterious green pigs, it's up to three unlikely outcasts to figure out what the pigs are up to.This movie is so unfunny it honestly felt like it was intended for an audience in another dimension.
- DirectorChris ColumbusStarsMacaulay CulkinJoe PesciDaniel SternOne year after Kevin McCallister was left home alone and had to defeat a pair of bumbling burglars, he accidentally finds himself stranded in New York City - and the same criminals are not far behind.Though it has a couple new and refreshing moments, it also feels like the entire first film was shown again, but in New York.
- DirectorRaja GosnellStarsAlex D. LinzOlek KrupaRya KihlstedtAlex Pruitt, an 8-year-old boy living in Chicago, must fend off international spies who seek a top-secret computer chip in his toy car.This film is both a symbol of the fall of the Home Alone franchise as well as the worst of screenwriting the 1990s had to offer.
- DirectorJohn LandisStarsJohn BelushiKaren AllenTom HulceAt a 1962 college, Dean Vernon Wormer is determined to expel the entire Delta Tau Chi Fraternity, but those troublemakers have other plans for him.It's great to see all these funny actors portray memorable characters in an environment where they're free to run wild.
- DirectorMike MitchellStarsBen AffleckChristina ApplegateJames GandolfiniA lonely, obnoxious young millionaire pays a family to spend Christmas with him.An hour and a half of a tone confused movie that doesn't build up to anything, resolve anything, or really do anything at all.
- DirectorGareth EdwardsStarsFelicity JonesDiego LunaAlan TudykIn a time of conflict, a group of unlikely heroes band together on a mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, the Empire's ultimate weapon of destruction.I was really taken by the action, some badass moments, and a few of the side characters, but the main characters were underwhelmingly bland.
- DirectorRon HowardStarsJim CarreyTaylor MomsenKelleyOn the outskirts of Whoville lives a green, revenge-seeking Grinch who plans to ruin Christmas for all of the citizens of the town.Takes a timeless Christmas story and intoxicates it with an ugly look, one dimensional characters, unfunny slapstick, and a completely failed message.
- DirectorAnthony RussoJoe RussoStarsChris EvansRobert Downey Jr.Scarlett JohanssonPolitical involvement in the Avengers' affairs causes a rift between Captain America and Iron Man.Brilliantly executes an idea that's been built up for years with some thrilling action, a gritty tone, great characters, and emotional weight.
- DirectorSimon J. SmithSteve HicknerStarsJerry SeinfeldRenée ZellwegerMatthew BroderickBarry B. Benson, a bee just graduated from college, is disillusioned at his lone career choice: making honey. On a special trip outside the hive, Barry's life is saved by Vanessa, a florist in New York City. As their relationship blossoms, he discovers humans actually eat honey and subsequently decides to sue them.It can be awkward and occasionally boring, but I think Bee Movie has enough creativity and wit to make it a passable film.
- DirectorRichard DonnerStarsChristopher ReeveMargot KidderGene HackmanAn alien orphan is sent from his dying planet to Earth, where he grows up to become his adoptive home's first and greatest superhero.While watching this movie, you just have to accept it as is: a silly, over the top movie that also includes dedication and charm.
- DirectorGreg BeemanStarsCorey HaimCorey FeldmanCarol KaneA teen decides to go for a night on the town with his friends despite flunking his driver's test.It's a clever setup, but the experience feels pretty bland with no idea really going anywhere, preventing the film from claiming an identity.
- DirectorJames BobinStarsMia WasikowskaJohnny DeppHelena Bonham CarterAlice is appointed to save her beloved Mad Hatter from deadly grief by travelling back to the past, but this means fatally harming Time himself, the noble clockwork man with the device needed to save the Hatter's family from the Red Queen.Every now and then there's an interesting idea or visual, but this sequel suffers from the same problems as its predecessor and is just as boring.
- DirectorScott DerricksonStarsEthan HawkeJuliet RylanceJames RansoneA controversial true-crime writer finds a box of Super 8 home movies in his new home, revealing that the murder case he is currently researching could be the work of an unknown serial killer whose legacy dates back to the 1960s.The performances and grimacing tone really help pull this movie from its flaws, setting it apart from generic horror films.
- DirectorJohn LandisStarsDavid NaughtonJenny AgutterJoe BelcherTwo American college students on a walking tour of Britain are attacked by a werewolf that none of the locals will admit exists.Takes a classic monster story and gives it a unique and original spin, giving the viewer a fun combination of laughter and terror.
- DirectorJeannot SzwarcStarsRoy ScheiderLorraine GaryMurray HamiltonPolice chief Brody must protect the citizens of Amity after a second monstrous shark begins terrorizing the waters.It has relationships that hold up and a suspenseful moment here and there, but also carries a lot of dead air by rehashing most of the first movie with less of a payoff.
- DirectorJoe AlvesStarsDennis QuaidBess ArmstrongSimon MacCorkindaleA giant thirty-five-foot shark becomes trapped in a SeaWorld theme park and it's up to the sons of police chief Brody to rescue everyone.A movie that continues to be a boring, unnecessary waste of time even in all 3 dimensions.
- DirectorJoseph SargentStarsLorraine GaryLance GuestMario Van PeeblesChief Brody's widow believes that her family is deliberately being targeted by another shark in search of revenge.It saddens me to see a great film like Jaws now connected with this lousy excuse for a revenge, sequel, and movie in general.
- DirectorDavid LynchStarsNaomi WattsLaura HarringJustin TherouxAfter a car wreck on Mulholland Drive renders a woman amnesiac, she and a Hollywood-hopeful search for clues and answers across Los Angeles in a twisting venture beyond dreams and reality.Lynch's dreamlike direction coinciding the actors' slightly off performances add a whole new layer to the film, leaving the viewer to reason the true narrative for themselves.
- DirectorRidley ScottStarsTom CruiseMia SaraTim CurryA young man must stop the Lord of Darkness from destroying daylight and marrying the woman he loves.The cinematography and prosthetics looked amazing, so it really sucks you out when bland acting, with the exception of Tim Curry, and in-cohesive writing take over.
- DirectorAdam ShankmanStarsJennifer LopezMatthew McConaugheyBridgette Wilson-SamprasMary Fiore is San Francisco's most successful supplier of romance and glamor. She knows all the tricks. She knows all the rules. But then she breaks the most important rule of all: she falls in love with the groom.The motives behind the characters' decisions are never explored, leaving two bland leads in a romance that is fueled by an obnoxious soundtrack rather than emotion.
- DirectorSimon WellsStarsKevin BaconBob HoskinsBridget FondaAn outcast Husky risks his life with other sled dogs to prevent a deadly epidemic from ravaging Nome, Alaska.Not great, but a well meaning, charming film that features stellar visuals and emotional moments that can keep audiences entertained through the adventure.
- DirectorZack SnyderStarsBen AffleckHenry CavillAmy AdamsBatman is manipulated by Lex Luthor to fear Superman. Superman´s existence is meanwhile dividing the world and he is framed for murder during an international crisis. The heroes clash and force the neutral Wonder Woman to reemerge.It should have been a lot better, but it contains enough good material not to make up for, but diminish the damage done by the clumsy and awkward material to instill a glimmer of hope in the DC cinematic universe.
- DirectorJoseph RubenStarsMacaulay CulkinElijah WoodWendy CrewsonA young boy stays with his aunt and uncle and becomes friends with his cousin, a boy of the same age who shows increasing signs of violent and psychopathic behavior.An almost laughably bad film that takes an unsettling idea and mucks it up with a goofy screenplay and an idiotic story.
- DirectorMel GibsonStarsJim CaviezelMonica BellucciMaia MorgensternDepicts the final twelve hours in the life of Jesus of Nazareth, on the day of his crucifixion in Jerusalem.Could've used a little more character and less gore, but does its job fine depicting what it wants to depict in a very memorable way.
- DirectorBarry JenkinsStarsMahershala AliNaomie HarrisTrevante RhodesA young African-American man grapples with his identity and sexuality while experiencing the everyday struggles of childhood, adolescence, and burgeoning adulthood.An experience into a different way of life that complexifies itself with realistic performances and a captivating main character, though more of a conclusion was needed.
- DirectorPhil Alden RobinsonStarsRobin WilliamsMila KunisPeter DinklageA perpetually angry man is informed he has 90 minutes to live and promptly sets out to reconcile with his family and friends in the short time he has left.Ironically not bad enough to make me angry, but noticeably anticlimactic and shy of any other emotion besides frustration from the main character.
- DirectorDavid AyerStarsWill SmithJared LetoMargot RobbieA secret government agency recruits some of the most dangerous incarcerated super-villains to form a defensive task force. Their first mission: save the world from the apocalypse.This movie incorporates too much style over substance by focusing more on the action and musical stylings rather than the chemistry between the main characters.
- DirectorWes CravenStarsNeve CampbellCourteney CoxDavid ArquetteA year after the murder of her mother, a teenage girl is terrorized by a masked killer who targets her and her friends by using scary movies as part of a deadly game.A perfect late night movie that takes great fun in mocking itself and the horror movie genre while also creating thrills on its own.
- DirectorJames GunnStarsChris PrattZoe SaldanaDave BautistaThe Guardians struggle to keep together as a team while dealing with their personal family issues, notably Star-Lord's encounter with his father, the ambitious celestial being Ego.The story threw in a little too much, but the writing and performances breathe new life into the characters, strengthening their impact on the audience.
- DirectorJames MangoldStarsHugh JackmanPatrick StewartDafne KeenIn a future where mutants are nearly extinct, an elderly and weary Logan leads a quiet life. But when Laura, a mutant child pursued by scientists, comes to him for help, he must get her to safety.I would have preferred more consistency with the main character and a shorter runtime, but was satisfied with the gore, action, and especially performances.
- DirectorGarth JenningsChristophe LourdeletStarsMatthew McConaugheyReese WitherspoonSeth MacFarlaneIn a city of humanoid animals, a hustling theater impresario's attempt to save his theater with a singing competition becomes grander than he anticipates even as its finalists find that their lives will never be the same.Pretty predictable and lacking of originality, but it's use of various songs and upbeat atmosphere make it at least a passable distraction for kids.
- DirectorJared HessStarsZach GalifianakisOwen WilsonKristen WiigA guard at an armored car company in the Southern U.S. organizes one of the biggest bank heists in American history. Based on the October 1997 Loomis Fargo robbery.An all around boring film that warrants a few chuckles, but doesn't have the writing or energy to make it a good comedy.
- DirectorD.J. CarusoStarsKate BeckinsaleMel RaidoDuncan JoinerA mother and her young son release unimaginable horrors from the attic of their rural dream home.Lives up to its title of disappointments by not having any likable characters, suspense, fulfillment, or even a conceivable plot. See Chris Stuckmann's review for more.
- DirectorNicolas Winding RefnStarsMads MikkelsenMaarten StevensonAlexander MortonForced for some time to be a fighting slave, a pagan warrior escapes his captors with a boy and joins a group of Crusaders on their quest to the Holy Land.Might be worth examination for some, but with the exception of the visual style and performances, probably won't have enough substance for most.
- DirectorJeff TremaineStarsJohnny KnoxvilleBam MargeraChris PontiusJohnny Knoxville and his band of maniacs perform a variety of stunts and gross-out gags on the big screen for the first time.It's an enjoyable distraction from life that showcases some pretty awesome stunts that are definitely worth seeing once.
- DirectorBong Joon HoStarsTilda SwintonPaul DanoAhn Seo-hyunA young girl risks everything to prevent a powerful, multinational company from kidnapping her best friend - a fascinating beast named Okja.A disappointing movie for me that did feature a few moving scenes, but didn't develop enough characters or plot lines to get behind.
- DirectorDavid FincherStarsJake GyllenhaalRobert Downey Jr.Mark RuffaloBetween 1968 and 1983, a San Francisco cartoonist becomes an amateur detective obsessed with tracking down the Zodiac Killer, an unidentified individual who terrorizes Northern California with a killing spree.An eerily intriguing film that easily sucks in the viewer through some powerhouse performances, masterful directing, and great suspense.
- DirectorBill CondonStarsEmma WatsonDan StevensLuke EvansA selfish Prince is cursed to become a monster for the rest of his life, unless he learns to fall in love with a beautiful young woman he keeps prisoner.There wasn't enough originality or heart in this movie to convince me that it was even worth re-making in the first place.
- DirectorRidley ScottStarsNicolas CageAlison LohmanSam RockwellA phobic con artist and his protégé are on the verge of pulling off a lucrative swindle when the former's teenage daughter arrives unexpectedly.It's a solidly good movie that provides powerhouse acting, a quirky screenplay, and typically beautiful Ridley Scott cinematography.
- DirectorEric DarnellTom McGrathStarsBen StillerChris RockDavid SchwimmerThe Madagascar animals fly back to New York City, but crash-land on an African nature reserve in Kenya, where they meet others of their own kind, and Alex especially discovers his royal heritage as prince of a lion pride.While the amount of story could get overwhelming at times, this second installment still gives us funnier jokes and more character development.
- DirectorGeorge A. RomeroStarsDuane JonesJudith O'DeaKarl HardmanA ragtag group of Pennsylvanians barricade themselves in an old farmhouse to remain safe from a horde of flesh-eating ghouls that are ravaging the Northeast of the United States.A standout independent horror movie that took crazy chances for its time and reflects today as a perfect late night cult classic.
- DirectorReginald HudlinStarsEddie MurphyRobin GivensHalle BerryA successful executive and womanizer finds his lifestyle choices have turned back on him when his new female boss turns out to be an even bigger deviant than he is.Doesn't do any harm by existing, but could have been better if the writers got the story squared away and threw in more funny jokes.
- DirectorFernando MeirellesKátia LundStarsAlexandre RodriguesLeandro FirminoMatheus NachtergaeleIn the slums of Rio, two kids' paths diverge as one struggles to become a photographer and the other a kingpin.A film that immediately amerces you into its environment which is depicted so brutally accurate that you forget that you're watching a movie at all.
- DirectorJames WanStarsCary ElwesLeigh WhannellDanny GloverTwo strangers awaken in a room with no recollection of how they got there, and soon discover they're pawns in a deadly game perpetrated by a notorious serial killer.It's no a great movie, but provides enough grotesque sequences and captivating mystery to hold the audience's attention for a solid 2 hours.
- DirectorCarl ReinerStarsSteve MartinBernadette PetersCatlin AdamsA simpleminded, sheltered country boy suddenly decides to leave his family home to experience life in the big city, where his naivete is both his best friend and his worst enemy.It incorporates a wide variety of impressive writing, acting, and even stunt work to produce a really enjoyable film.
- DirectorAdam WingardStarsNat WolffLaKeith StanfieldMargaret QualleyA high school student named Light Turner discovers a mysterious notebook that has the power to kill anyone whose name is written within its pages, and launches a secret crusade to rid the world of criminals.This movie takes no time to establish anything before throwing its audience into a complicated story with unlikeable characters and practically no breathing time.
- DirectorAndy MuschiettiStarsBill SkarsgårdJaeden MartellFinn WolfhardIn the summer of 1989, a group of bullied kids band together to destroy a shape-shifting monster, which disguises itself as a clown and preys on the children of Derry, their small Maine town.A refreshing reboot that took more time for character development and focused more on elements that made the original miniseries and novel stand out.
- DirectorJohn HamburgStarsPaul RuddJason SegelRashida JonesFriendless Peter Klaven goes on a series of man-dates to find a Best Man for his wedding. But, when his insta-bond with his new B.F.F. puts a strain on his relationship with his fiancée, can the trio learn to live happily ever after?Despite the ending succumbing to romcom cliches, the two leads share great chemistry and develop a relationship that is both original and funny.
- DirectorTobe HooperStarsJoBeth WilliamsHeather O'RourkeCraig T. NelsonA family's home is haunted by a host of demonic ghosts.An exhilarating ghost movie that wisely focuses on the themes of family and love before throwing in terrifying scares.
- DirectorKenny OrtegaStarsBette MidlerSarah Jessica ParkerKathy NajimyA teenage boy named Max and his little sister move to Salem, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches that were executed in the 17th century.Aside from the lead actresses giving it their all, this movie's story makes no sense and the humor doesn't feel appropriate for its target audience.
- DirectorVincente MinnelliStarsJudy GarlandMargaret O'BrienMary AstorYoung love and childish fears highlight a year in the life of a turn-of-the-century family.It can be expectedly corny and uneventful, but this musical adaptation has some great acting and warm atmosphere that make it worth a view.
- DirectorDavid Robert MitchellStarsMaika MonroeKeir GilchristOlivia LuccardiA young woman is followed by an unknown supernatural force after a sexual encounter.Not that it doesn't have a good share of suspenseful moments or creative scares, but needed to decide whether it wanted to be abstract or concrete.
- DirectorTom ShadyacStarsJim CarreyCourteney CoxSean YoungA goofy detective specializing in animals goes in search of the missing mascot of the Miami Dolphins.A nightmare for critics, but a mindless series of humorous scenes helmed by an energetic lead to please crowds of moviegoers.
- DirectorDavid Mickey EvansStarsJosh FlitterEmma LockhartAnn CusackThe son of an eccentric detective steps into his father's shoes after his mother is wrongly arrested for stealing a baby panda.An obvious cash grab that induces painful scenes of obnoxious editing, awkward performances, and all around passionless writing.
- DirectorSean AndersStarsWill FerrellMark WahlbergLinda CardelliniBrad Whitaker is a radio host trying to get his stepchildren to love him and call him Dad. But his plans turn upside down when their biological father, Dusty Mayron, returns.There is some likability in its simplicity, but the movie really drags with a predictable plot and lazy comedy.
- DirectorRian JohnsonStarsDaisy RidleyJohn BoyegaMark HamillRey develops her abilities with the help of Luke Skywalker, as the Resistance prepares for battle against the First Order.The scenes with Luke, Rey, and Kylo I feel are some of the best in Star Wars history, but the rest is kinda dumb.
- DirectorJudd ApatowStarsSteve CarellCatherine KeenerPaul RuddGoaded by his buddies, a nerdy guy who's never "done the deed" only finds the pressure mounting when he meets a single mother.I respect this movie for not shaming the virgin or married lifestyle but still poking fun in an entertaining way.
- DirectorJonathan LevineStarsJoseph Gordon-LevittSeth RogenAnna KendrickInspired by a true story, a comedy centered on a 27-year-old guy who learns of his cancer diagnosis and his subsequent struggle to beat the disease.The script and performances each contribute to taking a grim subject matter to create an inspiring, even humorous story.
- DirectorMichael DowseStarsDaniel RadcliffeZoe KazanMegan ParkWallace, who is burned out from a string of failed relationships, forms an instant bond with Chantry, who lives with her longtime boyfriend. Together, they puzzle out what it means if your best friend is also the love of your life.The story is nothing new and at times you can tell where its going, but the uniqueness of the acting and writing make this simple love story worth the watch.
- DirectorMike MitchellWalt DohrnStarsAnna KendrickJustin TimberlakeZooey DeschanelAfter the Bergens invade Troll Village, Poppy, the happiest Troll ever born, and the curmudgeonly Branch set off on a journey to rescue her friends.A very by the numbers kids film that is a fine distraction for kids but doesn't have anything for adult viewers.
- DirectorDarren AronofskyStarsEllen BurstynJared LetoJennifer ConnellyThe drug-induced utopias of four Coney Island people are shattered when their addictions run deep..Easily one of the most unpleasant experiences I've ever had watching a movie, and I mean that in the best possible way.
- DirectorJonathan DemmeStarsTom HanksDenzel WashingtonRoberta MaxwellWhen a man with HIV is fired by his law firm because of his condition, he hires a homophobic-small time lawyer as the only willing advocate for a wrongful dismissal suit.Hanks and Washington lend incredible performances to one of the most important stories in modern American history.
- DirectorJim JarmuschStarsAdam DriverGolshifteh FarahaniNellieA quiet observation of the triumphs and defeats of daily life, along with the poetry evident in its smallest details.It's amazing how simply showing a character behave can prove how incredible the art of film can be.
- DirectorPhilip KaufmanStarsDonald SutherlandBrooke AdamsJeff GoldblumWhen strange seeds drift to earth from space, mysterious pods begin to grow and invade San Francisco, replicating the city's residents one body at a time.Showcasing grotesque practical effects coupled with a looming suspenseful edge, the film still ranks among the horror classics.
- DirectorBenny SafdieJosh SafdieStarsRobert PattinsonBenny SafdieJennifer Jason LeighAfter a botched bank robbery lands his younger brother in prison, Connie Nikas embarks on a twisted odyssey through New York City's underworld to get his brother Nick out of jail.A very impressive debut from the Safdie brothers that brings out the worst in humanity and the best in Pattinson's career.
- DirectorAntoine FuquaStarsDenzel WashingtonEthan HawkeScott GlennA rookie cop spends his first day as a Los Angeles narcotics officer with a rogue detective who isn't what he appears to be.The two leads are strong and the direction is very poignant, even if the message gets jumbled from time to time.
- DirectorJay RoachStarsBen StillerRobert De NiroTeri PoloMale nurse Greg Focker meets his girlfriend's parents before proposing, but her suspicious father is every date's worst nightmare.Stiller's hilarious slapstick combined with De Niro's stone-cold persona elevate the film to a high comedic status.
- DirectorJohn LandisStarsEddie MurphyDan AykroydRalph BellamyA snobbish investor and a wily street con artist find their positions reversed as part of a bet by two callous millionaires.A hilarious script recited through hilarious performances help create a comedy that's as intelligent as it is stupid.
- DirectorMartin ScorseseStarsRobert De NiroSharon StoneJoe PesciIn Las Vegas, two best friends - a casino executive and a mafia enforcer - compete for a gambling empire and a fast-living, fast-loving socialite.Though there are a lot of recycled elements from other Scorsese films, I couldn't help but be entertained by them nonetheless.
- DirectorRon ClementsJohn MuskerDon HallStarsAuli'i CravalhoDwayne JohnsonRachel HouseIn ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by the demigod Maui reaches Moana's island, she answers the Ocean's call to seek out Maui to set things right.It's basically a paint by number Disney movie, but given the studio's track record, it works in the film's benefit.
- DirectorJon FavreauStarsRobert Downey Jr.Gwyneth PaltrowTerrence HowardAfter being held captive in an Afghan cave, billionaire engineer Tony Stark creates a unique weaponized suit of armor to fight evil.A breakthrough Downey Jr. performance, great action, and humorous writing provide a solid introduction for the MCU.
- DirectorTaika WaititiStarsChris HemsworthTom HiddlestonCate BlanchettImprisoned on the planet Sakaar, Thor must race against time to return to Asgard and stop Ragnarök, the destruction of his world, at the hands of the powerful and ruthless villain Hela.Waititi elevates the Thor franchise to a whole new level by injecting the third installment with a fun 70's overtone and sense of humor.
- DirectorFrancis LawrenceStarsWill SmithAlice BragaCharlie TahanYears after a plague kills most of humanity and transforms the rest into monsters, the sole survivor in New York City struggles valiantly to find a cure.When watched with the alternate ending, the film proves to be a very quiet and dignified examination of humanity when put through the hardest of life's trials.
- DirectorTerry JonesStarsGraham ChapmanJohn CleeseMichael PalinBorn on the original Christmas in the stable next door to Jesus Christ, Brian of Nazareth spends his life being mistaken for a messiah.A hilariously ridiculous satire of religious storytelling that is able to mock the followers of Christ rather than the teachings.
- DirectorChris ColumbusStarsRobin WilliamsSally FieldPierce BrosnanAfter a bitter divorce, an actor disguises himself as a female housekeeper to spend time with his children held in custody by his former wife.Robin Williams' genuine performance and a heartfelt message carried this movie into the classic status it helms today.
- DirectorFede AlvarezStarsStephen LangJane LevyDylan MinnetteHoping to walk away with a massive fortune, a trio of thieves break into the house of a blind man who isn't as helpless as he seems.Though the third act really drags out, the first two deliver some tension-filled sequences and an equally intimidating antagonist.
- DirectorYimou ZhangStarsJet LiTony Leung Chiu-waiMaggie CheungA defense officer, Nameless, was summoned by the King of Qin regarding his success of terminating three warriors.The grand scope, ending moral, direction, and captivating lead role form a timeless story that is truly more that what it seems.