Volume 8
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- DirectorZack SnyderStarsBen AffleckGal GadotJason MomoaFueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman's selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists the help of his new-found ally, Diana Prince, to face an even greater enemy.I'm glad I saw it, but have to acknowledge a film of this magnitude needed better looking effects, a more cohesive narrative, and simply more time to build it up.
- DirectorTate TaylorStarsViola DavisEmma StoneOctavia SpencerAn aspiring author during the civil rights movement of the 1960s decides to write a book detailing the African American maids' point of view on the white families for which they work, and the hardships they go through on a daily basis.I can understand people's reasons for liking and disliking the movie, but I believe its heart was in the right place and felt most of the emotion it intended me to feel.
- DirectorAndrew AdamsonKelly AsburyConrad VernonStarsMike MyersEddie MurphyCameron DiazShrek and Fiona travel to the Kingdom of Far Far Away, where Fiona's parents are King and Queen, to celebrate their marriage. When they arrive, they find they are not as welcome as they thought they would be.A really well done comedy with plenty of perfectly timed jokes and creative character twists that may push this second installment slightly over the original.
- DirectorMark HermanStarsAsa ButterfieldDavid ThewlisRupert FriendThrough the innocent eyes of Bruno, the eight-year-old son of the commandant at a German concentration camp, a forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence has startling and unexpected consequences.The ending is hauntingly effective and everything else is decent enough to serve the story, though I wish more elements were given more time to naturally flesh out.
- DirectorKenneth BranaghStarsFerdia ShawLara McDonnellJosh GadArtemis Fowl, a young criminal prodigy, hunts down a secret society of fairies to find his missing father.An absolutely horrendous movie that takes no time to build its world, develop its characters, let emotions sink in, or remotely convince us that its clever in any way.
- DirectorSeth MacFarlaneStarsSeth MacFarlaneCharlize TheronLiam NeesonAs a cowardly farmer begins to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, he must put his newly found courage to the test when her husband, a notorious gun-slinger, announces his arrival.The film struggles to claim an identity and therefore feels bland, unfocused, boring, and more concerned with preserving MacFarlane's image than telling funny jokes.
- DirectorSpike LeeStarsDelroy LindoJonathan MajorsClarke PetersFour African-American vets battle the forces of man and nature when they return to Vietnam seeking the remains of their fallen squad leader and the gold fortune he helped them hide.Sometimes it goes a little overboard with its message and can feel slow, but the genuine performances and bold directorial choices more than make this film stand out.
- DirectorJay RoachStarsMike MyersElizabeth HurleyMichael YorkA world-class playboy and part-time secret agent from the 1960s emerges after thirty years in a cryogenic state to battle with his nemesis Dr. Evil.The spy parody aspect may not seem as original today, but the film's hilarious characters, clever writing, and devotion to the 007 formula still make it shagadellic years later.
- DirectorSpike LeeStarsTracy Camilla JohnsTommy Redmond HicksJohn Canada TerrellStory of a woman and her three lovers.Takes a simple romantic comedy premise and injects the story with a unique, down to earth vision on sexuality while paying homage to the classic black independent films of the early 60s.
- DirectorSteven KnightStarsMatthew McConaugheyAnne HathawayDiane LaneA fishing boat captain juggles facing his mysterious past and finding himself ensnared in a reality where nothing is what it seems.A perfect example of how being unpredictable and artsy can hurt a film's story to the point of it being humorously unpoignant, at least more so than it already was.
- DirectorTony CervoneStarsWill ForteMark WahlbergJason IsaacsScooby and the gang face their most challenging mystery ever: a plot to unleash the ghost dog Cerberus upon the world. As they race to stop this dogpocalypse, the gang discovers that Scooby has an epic destiny greater than anyone imagined.A fairly cute and funny movie that embraces its source material in a satirical, yet faithful way that separates it from the lesser-quality sell outs of its property.
- DirectorBobby FarrellyPeter FarrellyStarsCameron DiazMatt DillonBen StillerA man gets a chance to meet up with his dream girl from high school, even though his date with her back then was a complete disaster.One of those gross out physical comedies that thrives off bad taste and offensive material, making the viewer feel bad for having enjoyed it so much.
- DirectorRoland EmmerichStarsMel GibsonHeath LedgerJoely RichardsonPeaceful farmer Benjamin Martin is driven to lead the Colonial Militia during the American Revolution when a sadistic British officer murders his son.Patronizing, cliched, historically inaccurate, and sloppily paced, the film may have a few good moments and some decent action, but it fails to create anything complex beyond blind patriotism.
- DirectorDoug LimanStarsNaomi WattsSean PennSonya DavisonCIA operative Valerie Plame discovers her identity is allegedly leaked by the government as payback for an op-ed article her husband wrote criticizing the Bush administration.It contains some interesting commentary and decent performances from the two leads, but is bland in its execution in a way that will likely divide viewers.
- DirectorChuck RussellStarsJim CarreyCameron DiazPeter RiegertBank clerk Stanley Ipkiss is transformed into a manic superhero when he wears a mysterious mask.Zaney, over the top, occasionally cynical, and featuring a sentimental performance from Jim Carrey, this comedy is a fun one to watch if you're looking to channel your inner maniac.
- DirectorEmile ArdolinoStarsPatrick SwayzeJennifer GreyJerry OrbachSpending the summer at a Catskills resort with her family, Frances "Baby" Houseman falls in love with the camp's dance instructor, Johnny Castle.Though beloved by many, I found the film to be unfocused, cliched, poorly written and acted, and just plain stupid for the most part.
- DirectorMax BarbakowStarsAndy SambergCristin MiliotiJ.K. SimmonsStuck in a time loop, two wedding guests develop a budding romance while living the same day over and over again.It can get a little too serious at times, but I still loved this movie's original take on an outdated premise, driven home through hilarious writing and engaging chemistry between Samberg and Milioti.
- DirectorJames FoleyStarsMark WahlbergReese WitherspoonWilliam PetersenWhen Nicole met David; handsome, charming, affectionate, he was everything. It seemed perfect, but soon she sees that David has a darker side. And his adoration turns to obsession, their dream into a nightmare, and her love into fear.There's a few disturbing moments and Wahlberg is entertaining, but Fear lacks the credibility in its script and character development required for me to be invested in this type of story.
- DirectorTom HooperStarsHugh JackmanRussell CroweAnne HathawayIn 19th-century France, Jean Valjean, who for decades has been hunted by the ruthless policeman Javert after breaking parole, agrees to care for a factory worker's daughter. The decision changes their lives forever.I was enticed by the first third, but the rest of the film descends into a cluttered story that doesn't really take advantage of its musical talent or grand spectacle.
- DirectorEric DarnellTim JohnsonLawrence GutermanStarsWoody AllenSharon StoneGene HackmanA rather neurotic ant tries to break from his totalitarian society while trying to win the affection of the princess he loves.Could have taken more time with its story, but still provides enough creativity, enjoyable characters, and a profound message.
- DirectorKelly AsburyLorna CookStarsMatt DamonJames CromwellDaniel StudiA captured mustang remains determined to return to his herd no matter what.Though nothing spectacular, I admire the risks this film took and was thoroughly invested in the story due to the perfect character animation and stunning landscapes.
- DirectorJoe JohnstonStarsRobin WilliamsKirsten DunstBonnie HuntWhen two kids find and play a magical board game, they release a man trapped in it for decades - and a host of dangers that can only be stopped by finishing the game.It's fine as a kids movie, but with the exception of some creative scenes and Williams' performance, the plot transcends into boring territory as it repeats the same fluff over and over.
- DirectorBenny SafdieJosh SafdieStarsAdam SandlerJulia FoxIdina MenzelWith his debts mounting and angry collectors closing in, a fast-talking New York City jeweler risks everything in hope of staying afloat and alive.Sandler's performance kinetically drives this story as it transcends into a roller coaster of tension that only gets more intense just when you expect it to calm down.
- DirectorWalt DohrnDavid P. SmithStarsAnna KendrickJustin TimberlakeRachel BloomWhen the Queen of the Hard Rock Trolls tries to take over all the Troll kingdoms, Queen Poppy and her friends try different ways to save all the Trolls.Has some creativity with its animation and premise, but uses too many cliches, conflicting messages, and story elements that culminate in an all around messy melody.
- DirectorBetty ThomasStarsEddie MurphyOwen WilsonFamke JanssenA professional athlete has to help a U.S. government agent recover a missing jet.The annoying chemistry between Wilson and Murphy only fuels the irritating absurdity of the story that can only make sense in this uninspired, lazy, manipulative piece of early 2000s junk.
- DirectorJames PonsoldtStarsEmma WatsonTom HanksJohn BoyegaA woman lands a dream job at a powerful tech company called the Circle, only to uncover an agenda that will affect the lives of all of humanity.It's honestly kind of amazing how profound this movie thinks it is, when in reality all we have is a clumsy, pretentious, and very VERY boring film that most of the time doesn't even feel finished.
- DirectorRian JohnsonStarsDaniel CraigChris EvansAna de ArmasA detective investigates the death of the patriarch of an eccentric, combative family.Expertly flips the mystery genre on its back with its original story structure, yet still keeps the viewer guessing with continuous curveballs and twists around every corner.
- DirectorBarry SonnenfeldStarsAnjelica HustonRaul JuliaChristopher LloydCon artists plan to fleece an eccentric family using an accomplice who claims to be their long-lost uncle.At first it's a little awkward to get in to, but once the charm of the actors and imaginatively grim atmosphere begins to sink in, it creates a wonderfully dreadful family film.
- DirectorMike FlanaganStarsCarla GuginoBruce GreenwoodChiara AureliaA couple tries to spice up their marriage in a remote lake house. After the husband dies unexpectedly, the wife is left handcuffed to their bed frame and must fight to survive and break free.A true character study that also initiates great sensations of anxiety and uneasiness through a terrific performance from Carla Gugino, even if the ending felt a bit clumsy.
- DirectorM. Night ShyamalanStarsSigourney WeaverWilliam HurtJoaquin PhoenixA series of events tests the beliefs of a small isolated countryside village.There's some solid atmosphere and dedicated performances in this, but the outcome everything amounts to and the reasonings behind it feel very unfulfilling and don't make a lot of sense.
- DirectorLars KlevbergStarsTim MathesonBen DaonZahra AndersonA mother gives her 13-year-old son a toy doll for his birthday, unaware of its more sinister nature.Tough call to say whether or not this is a good movie, but it's hard not to admire the dedication to its own gore and balls to the walls narrative choices.
- DirectorBernard RoseStarsVirginia MadsenXander BerkeleyTony ToddThe Candyman, a murderous soul with a hook for a hand, is accidentally summoned to reality by a skeptic grad student researching the monster's myth.It does a good job blending urban folklore with grounded reality in a way that sometimes gets a little confusing, but mostly paves the way for a lot of modern horror elements we've come to appreciate today.
- DirectorJames CameronStarsLeonardo DiCaprioKate WinsletBilly ZaneA seventeen-year-old aristocrat falls in love with a kind but poor artist aboard the luxurious, ill-fated R.M.S. Titanic.The writing can be undoubtedly cheesy on occasion, but James Cameron's sense of scope and dedication really shine through to create one of the most unforgettable experiences a film of this magnitude can offer.
- DirectorSteve MinerStarsBridget FondaBill PullmanOliver PlattFour people attempt to stop a gigantic crocodile, who is terrorizing residents in Black Lake, Maine.This is an interesting movie in that I can't figure out if it's just poorly written in a humorous way or if its intentionally trolling the audience's expectations. Either way I had a great time.
- DirectorDavid CronenbergStarsOliver ReedSamantha EggarArt HindleA man tries to uncover an unconventional psychologist's therapy techniques on his institutionalized wife, amidst a series of brutal murders.A fairly unsettling piece of early work from David Cronenberg that showcases his talent of peeling back layers of a mystery to reveal an even more disturbing idea.
- DirectorEric BrevigStarsDan AykroydJustin TimberlakeAnna FarisA documentary filmmaker travels to Jellystone Park to shoot a project and soon crosses paths with Yogi Bear, his sidekick Boo-Boo and Ranger Smith.The A-List cast doesn't lend much energy to help with the script, which already reeks of predictable comedy topped off with childish pop culture jokes.
- DirectorBrian FeeStarsOwen WilsonCristela AlonzoChris CooperLightning McQueen sets out to prove to a new generation of racers that he's still the best race car in the world.I can admire Pixar's attempt to round this trilogy on a more adult note, but am still fully aware that the plot uses the same cookie cutter storyboards as the first film.
- DirectorPete DocterKemp PowersStarsJamie FoxxTina FeyGraham NortonJoe is a middle-school band teacher whose life hasn't quite gone the way he expected. His true passion is jazz. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have soul.I feel like this idea could've been fleshed out a little more, but that certainly doesn't take away from this beautiful looking and adultly profound look on the meaning of life.
- DirectorJustin BaldoniStarsFin ArgusNeve CampbellSabrina CarpenterBased on real events, a young musician discovers his cancer has spread, leaving him just a few months to live. With limited time, he follows his dream and makes an album, unaware that it will soon be a viral music phenomenon.Some scenes can be a little cringy and predictable, but the dedication the actors bring to the story really enhances the film's intended impact.
- DirectorLarry CharlesStarsSacha Baron CohenKen DavitianLuenellKazakh TV talking head Borat is dispatched to the United States to report on the greatest country in the world.A mock-umentary that gives a whole new meaning to bad taste while at the same time drawing an oddly inspiring portrait of America's faults and wonders.
- DirectorSergio PablosCarlos Martínez LópezStarsJason SchwartzmanJ.K. SimmonsRashida JonesA simple act of kindness always sparks another, even in a frozen, faraway place. When Smeerensburg's new postman, Jesper, befriends toymaker Klaus, their gifts melt an age-old feud and deliver a sleigh full of holiday traditions.I would've liked a less predictable third act, but this modern holiday classic still comes through with good voice work, stellar animation, and a sweet message.
- DirectorPatty JenkinsStarsGal GadotChris PineRobin WrightWhen a pilot crashes and tells of conflict in the outside world, Diana, an Amazonian warrior in training, leaves home to fight a war, discovering her full powers and true destiny.Not perfect, but does a lot of good for the superhero genre by giving us a powerful heroine, great looking action, and some overall kickass moments.
- DirectorPeter SegalStarsChris FarleyDavid SpadeBrian DennehyAfter his auto-parts tycoon father dies, the overweight, underachieving son teams up with a snide accountant to try and save the family business.Farley is enjoyable, but I never found myself getting invested in the rest of the cast or the predictability of the story for that matter.
- DirectorCory FinleyStarsHugh JackmanRay RomanoWelker WhiteThe beloved superintendent of New York's Roslyn school district and his staff, friends and relatives become the prime suspects in the unfolding of the single largest public school embezzlement scandal in American history.A lot of great work shines through this story, such as Hackman and Janney's performances, the darkly comedic screenplay, and real world unpleasantry of the unfolding events.
- DirectorRobert ClouseStarsBruce LeeJohn SaxonJim KellyA Shaolin martial artist travels to an island fortress to spy on an opium lord - who is also a former monk from his temple - under the guise of attending a fighting tournament.Bruce Lee's work is wildly entertaining to watch and the story is enjoyably goofy enough to follow, even if the writing isn't exactly top notch.
- DirectorRichard LinklaterStarsEthan HawkeJulie DelpyAndrea EckertA young man and woman meet on a train in Europe, and wind up spending one evening together in Vienna. Unfortunately, both know that this will probably be their only night together.One of the prime examples on how to craft a great love story by, oddly enough, not giving it a lot of structure, but by utilizing the character's chemistry and atmospheric tone.
- DirectorBrad BirdJan PinkavaStarsBrad GarrettLou RomanoPatton OswaltA rat who can cook makes an unusual alliance with a young kitchen worker at a famous Paris restaurant.A maturely passionate animated film that beautifully deconstructs why gifted people do what they do with great patience and sophistication.
- DirectorJudd ApatowStarsAdam SandlerSeth RogenLeslie MannWhen seasoned comedian George Simmons learns of his terminal, inoperable health condition, his desire to form a genuine friendship causes him to take a relatively green performer under his wing as his opening act.Eerily similar to Sandler's actual career, Funny People takes its fair share of risks in how it structures its story and how unlikeable it makes the main character, making its subtext all the more intriguing.
- DirectorMatthew O'CallaghanStarsWill FerrellDrew BarrymoreEugene LevyThe Man in the Yellow Hat is an oddball museum employee who looks after his pet monkey, an inquisitive and wonderful creature whose enthusiasm often gets the best of him.I don't think people expect much going into Curious George the movie, but its innocent tone, voice acting, colorful animation, and soundtrack make it a passably harmless distraction.
- DirectorJohn Lee HancockStarsDenzel WashingtonRami MalekJared LetoKern County Deputy Sheriff Joe Deacon is sent to Los Angeles for what should have been a quick evidence-gathering assignment. Instead, he becomes embroiled in the search for a serial killer who is terrorizing the city.It's well directed and has a good opening scene, but there's way too much familiarity with the plot and characters to warrant a story that isn't a copy-paste crime thriller.
- DirectorGorô MiyazakiStarsTaylor HendersonJazmín AbuínJB BlancAn orphan girl, Earwig, is adopted by a witch and comes home to a spooky house filled with mystery and magic.The animation doesn't mesh well in 3D, the tone is lopsided, and it overall feels as if the film should have started where it concluded.
- DirectorBrian De PalmaStarsMargot KidderJennifer SaltCharles DurningA small-time reporter tries to convince the police she saw a murder in the apartment across from hers.The ending gets a little blurry, but the build up and escalating tension surrounding a disturbing mystery make this a solid piece of early work for DePalma's career.
- DirectorPaul WeitzStarsDennis QuaidTopher GraceScarlett JohanssonA middle-aged ad exec is faced with a new boss who's nearly half his age... and who also happens to be sleeping with his daughter.I admire some of the offbeat plot points it tried to utilize for the time it came out, but it forgot to give the characters time to form connections and have distinctive personalities.
- DirectorTim StoryStarsChloë Grace MoretzMichael PeñaColin JostA chaotic battle ensues between Jerry Mouse, who has taken refuge in the Royal Gate Hotel, and Tom Cat, who is hired to drive him away before the day of a big wedding arrives.The opening credits featuring rapping pigeons confirmed my hatred for the film even before it gave me a dated script, lame slapstick, and took away my faith in cartoon adaptations.
- DirectorJ BlakesonStarsRosamund PikePeter DinklageEiza GonzálezA crooked legal guardian who drains the savings of her elderly wards meets her match when a woman she tries to swindle turns out to be more than she first appears.A disturbing and, in a strange way, empowering film that creates some absolutely horrible main characters we can't help but cheer and fear for until the very end.
- DirectorDon HallCarlos López EstradaPaul BriggsStarsKelly Marie TranAwkwafinaGemma ChanIn a realm known as Kumandra, a re-imagined Earth inhabited by an ancient civilization, a warrior named Raya is determined to find the last dragon.This film's characters, action, and really creative world building allow it to be very entertaining despite the dated nature of its message and hit and miss comedy.
- DirectorCraig BrewerStarsEddie MurphyArsenio HallShari HeadleyThe African monarch Akeem learns he has a long-lost son in the United States and must return to America to meet this unexpected heir and build a relationship with his son.If you're looking to watch the first film again, I would sooner put it on that reliving the same gags with a lazier, outdated story that doesn't even follow its own coherency.
- DirectorZack SnyderStarsHenry CavillBen AffleckGal GadotDetermined to ensure that Superman's ultimate sacrifice wasn't in vain, Bruce Wayne recruits a team of metahumans to protect the world from an approaching threat of catastrophic proportions.It's great to see Snyder's full (if not lengthy) vision brought to audiences, as it feels significantly more passionate and important than the original cut.
- DirectorStephen FrearsStarsJohn CusackIben HjejleTodd LouisoRob, a record store owner and compulsive list maker, recounts his top five breakups, including the one in progress.The performances and hipster-esque overtone give this movie its own unique voice, yet delivers a message that can speak to all categories of viewers.
- DirectorKitao SakuraiStarsEric AndréMichaela ConlinLil Rel HoweryThis mix of a scripted buddy comedy road movie and a real hidden camera prank show follows the outrageous misadventures of two buds stuck in a rut who embark on a cross-country road trip to NYC. The storyline sets up shocking real pranks.It's essentially Jackass meets Dumb and Dumber meets The Eric Andre Show, and it's about as enjoyable as that sounds.
- DirectorChristopher NolanStarsAl PacinoRobin WilliamsHilary SwankTwo Los Angeles homicide detectives are dispatched to a northern town where the sun doesn't set to investigate the methodical murder of a local teen.Christopher Nolan's isolated vision and Hillary Seitz's sharp screenplay each poignantly deliver an original spin on the cat and mouse thriller story.
- DirectorJordan Vogt-RobertsStarsTom HiddlestonSamuel L. JacksonBrie LarsonAfter the Vietnam war, a team of scientists explores an uncharted island in the Pacific, venturing into the domain of the mighty Kong and must fight to escape a primal Eden.Had more than a few too many characters and a predictable story, but with that also came a few good characters, an enjoyable self aware tone, and some really entertaining action.
- DirectorMichael DoughertyStarsKyle ChandlerVera FarmigaMillie Bobby BrownThe crypto-zoological agency Monarch faces off against a battery of god-sized monsters, including the mighty Godzilla, who collides with Mothra, Rodan, and his ultimate nemesis, the three-headed King Ghidorah.If a monster movie is gonna force us to spend 2 and a half hours with human characters rather than monsters, they should at least give them personalities outside of exposition.
- DirectorAdam WingardStarsAlexander SkarsgårdMillie Bobby BrownRebecca HallThe epic next chapter in the cinematic Monsterverse pits two of the greatest icons in motion picture history against each other--the fearsome Godzilla and the mighty Kong--with humanity caught in the balance.The film ultimately delivers the cool and creative action it promises along with a self aware tone that may not equal great storytelling, but will give you a good time regardless.
- DirectorBen FalconeStarsMelissa McCarthyOctavia SpencerJason BatemanIn a world where supervillains are commonplace, two estranged childhood best friends reunite after one devises a treatment that gives them powers to protect their city.I honestly didn't expect a lot going into this, but in addition to the poor writing and comedic timing, the film also manages to be ungodly boring.
- DirectorTravis StevensStarsBarbara CramptonLarry FessendenBonnie AaronsAnne, married to a small-town Minister, feels her life has been shrinking over the past 30 years. Encountering "The Master" brings her a new sense of power and an appetite to live bolder. However, the change comes with a heavy body count.Though limited by its budget, this was a pretty fun horror film with a dark sense of humor that even included some interesting commentary about marital relationships.
- DirectorJim JarmuschStarsJohn LurieEszter BalintRichard EdsonA New Yorker's life is thrown into a tailspin when his younger cousin surprise-visits him, starting a strange, unpredictable adventure.The acting and carefully effortless directing already create a realistic feel, but the film truly shines when it emphasizes the importance of life's mundane moments that most people toss aside.
- DirectorSteven SpielbergStarsTom HanksMatt DamonTom SizemoreFollowing the Normandy Landings, a group of U.S. soldiers go behind enemy lines to retrieve a paratrooper whose brothers have been killed in action.Spielberg crafts a truly realistic depiction of war in a way that immerses the viewer among the combat and discusses the trade offs of battle through the eyes of authentic characters.
- DirectorSimon McQuoidStarsLewis TanJessica McNameeJosh LawsonMMA fighter Cole Young seeks out Earth's greatest champions in order to stand against the enemies of Outworld in a high stakes battle for the universe.An R rating definitely helps this movie through entertaining violence, but the film still feels super rushed, giving little weight to the characters or action.
- DirectorKinka UsherStarsBen StillerJaneane GarofaloWilliam H. MacyA group of inept amateur superheroes must try to save the day when a supervillain threatens to destroy a major superhero and the city.The choppy editing and awkward timing make me understand why people don't like it, but I found the characters too endearing and the story so enjoyably ridiculous that I ended up having a good time.
- DirectorEric DarnellTom McGrathConrad VernonStarsBen StillerJada Pinkett SmithChris RockThe Madagascar animals join a struggling European circus to get back to New York, but find themselves being pursued by a psychotic animal-control officer.A fitting conclusion to this trilogy that has the familiar cartoonish charm of its predecessors, but also takes the time to allow more dramatic scenes play out.
- DirectorMichael RiandaJeff RoweStarsAbbi JacobsonDanny McBrideMaya RudolphA quirky, dysfunctional family's road trip is upended when they find themselves in the middle of the robot apocalypse and suddenly become humanity's unlikeliest last hope.This animated family feature is sure to bring actual families together with its quick witted screenplay, relatable characters, and unifying morals.
- DirectorStefano SollimaStarsMichael B. JordanJodie Turner-SmithJamie BellAn elite Navy SEAL goes on a path to avenge his wife's murder only to find himself inside of a larger conspiracy.The action isn't exciting, the characters are bland, and although the plot tries to be about something and has some clever ideas, it's played out in a way that would just bore viewers.
- DirectorJosh GreenbaumStarsKristen WiigAnnie MumoloJamie DornanLifelong friends Barb and Star embark on the adventure of a lifetime when they decide to leave their small Midwestern town for the first time - ever.One of the year's most underrated comedies that packs in lots of zany humor and hilarious performances in a story that feels written by a kindergartner, and I mean that in the best way.
- DirectorJason ReitmanStarsAaron EckhartCameron BrightMaria BelloSatirical comedy follows the machinations of Big Tobacco's chief spokesman, Nick Naylor, who spins on behalf of cigarettes while trying to remain a role model for his 12-year old son.A fairly underrated, shocking comedy that dares to tackle freedom of speech and personal beliefs by turning the tables on the typical corrupted authority portfolio.
- DirectorTaylor SheridanStarsAngelina JolieNicholas HoultFinn LittleA teenage murder witness finds himself pursued by twin assassins in the Montana wilderness with a survival expert tasked with protecting him -- and a forest fire threatening to consume them all.Despite its decent setup combining the forces on man with the forces of nature, the film doesn't have a rich enough script to compensate for the lack of detail it provides for the rest of the story.
- DirectorGuy RitchieStarsJason StathamHolt McCallanyJosh HartnettA mysteriously stoic character is hired as a security guard by a cash truck company responsible for transporting a lot of money around Los Angeles each week.On the surface it may seem like a basic action thriller, but Ritchie offers a much darker and bleak perspective within the story that conveys deeper meaning.
- DirectorCraig GillespieStarsEmma StoneEmma ThompsonJoel FryA live-action prequel feature film following a young Cruella de Vil.Undoubtedly flawed with its length, excessive soundtrack, and unnecessary tie-ins, Cruella's commitment to a darker story and entertaining performances make it feel like a step in the right direction for live action Disney remakes.
- DirectorJames WanStarsVera FarmigaPatrick WilsonMadison WolfeEd and Lorraine Warren travel to North London to help a single mother raising four children alone in a house plagued by a supernatural spirit.A worthy follow up that once again gives us rich human characters, well-handled scares, and a fair amount of drama, even if the supernatural element didn't feel quite as fleshed out.
- DirectorMichael ChavesStarsPatrick WilsonVera FarmigaRuairi O'ConnorArne Cheyenne Johnson stabs and murders his landlord, claiming to be under demonic possession while Ed and Lorraine Warren investigate the case and try to prove his innocence.As a generic horror film it's serviceable, but as a follow up to a solid horror series, it doesn't feel as important, well crafted, or worthy of investment like the previous films.
- DirectorKyle NewacheckStarsAdam SandlerJennifer AnistonLuke EvansA New York cop and his wife go on a European vacation to reinvigorate the spark in their marriage, but end up getting framed and on the run for the death of an elderly billionaire.Sandler and Anniston have decently entertaining chemistry, but the mystery surrounding the characters is neither captivating or, even worse, funny.
- DirectorJon M. ChuStarsAnthony RamosCorey HawkinsLeslie GraceIn Washington Heights, a sympathetic New York bodega owner saves every penny every day as he imagines and sings about a better life.The film's passion shines brightly through its reality-inspired message, great performances, and breathtaking musical sequences, all while injecting viewers with a sense of culture rarely portrayed through this medium.
- DirectorJoe WrightStarsAmy AdamsGary OldmanAnthony MackieAn agoraphobic woman living alone in New York begins spying on her new neighbors; only to witness a disturbing act of violence.This adaptation had promise, but it hastily glances over important details, has virtually no likable characters, and is directed in such a boring way that it's hard to care about anything.
- DirectorEnrico CasarosaStarsJacob TremblayJack Dylan GrazerEmma BermanOn the Italian Riviera, an unlikely but strong friendship grows between a human being and a sea monster disguised as a human.It certainly looks beautiful and has a promising premise, but there needed to be more time devoted to the characters to let emotions sink in and come together as a whole.
- DirectorPaul WeitzStarsKevin HartAlfre WoodardLil Rel HoweryA father brings up his baby girl as a single dad after the unexpected death of his wife who died a day after their daughter's birth.Kevin Hart possibly delivers the best performance of his career in this parental drama that may not be the best of its kind, but still offers an emotional experience with relatable characters.
- DirectorJake KasdanStarsDwayne JohnsonKaren GillanKevin HartFour teenagers are sucked into a magical video game, and the only way they can escape is to work together to finish the game.The film serves as a creative update to the Jumanji universe, allowing viewers to be immersed in its world while the lead actors humorously play against their personas.
- DirectorBilly Bob ThorntonStarsBilly Bob ThorntonDwight YoakamJ.T. WalshKarl Childers, a simple man hospitalized since his childhood murder of his mother and her lover, is released to start a new life in a small town.Billy Bob Thorton's cartoonishly on par performance makes his character feel all the more authentic, creating a character study that's both heartwarming and disturbing.
- DirectorSofia CoppolaStarsBill MurrayScarlett JohanssonGiovanni RibisiA faded movie star and a neglected young woman form an unlikely bond after crossing paths in Tokyo.The film's raw atmosphere creates an almost otherworldly feel that Murray and Johansson perfectly encapsulate in Sofia Coppola's uniquely relatable tale of romance and isolation.
- DirectorChris WedgeCarlos SaldanhaStarsDenis LearyJohn LeguizamoRay RomanoThe story revolves around sub-zero heroes: a woolly mammoth, a saber-toothed tiger, a sloth and a prehistoric combination of a squirrel and rat, known as Scrat.Before a herd of underwhelming sequels, this film managed to surpass most animated films of its time by creating memorable characters and putting them in an environment that's taken full advantage of.
- DirectorMalcolm D. LeeStarsLeBron JamesDon CheadleCedric JoeA rogue artificial intelligence kidnaps the son of famed basketball player LeBron James, who then has to work with Bugs Bunny to win a basketball game.I cannot say it's good, but it is entertaining for better or worse, takes advantage of its creative universe, and has some legitimately funny moments...and some very cringe ones.
- DirectorCate ShortlandStarsScarlett JohanssonFlorence PughDavid HarbourNatasha Romanoff confronts the darker parts of her ledger when a dangerous conspiracy with ties to her past arises.I liked the action and some of the new characters, but Black Widow's solo film felt too exposition heavy and relied on MCU tropes that kept its dramatic tone from elevating high enough.
- DirectorDennis DuganStarsAdam SandlerKatie HolmesAl PacinoFamily guy, Jack Sadelstein, prepares for the annual event he always dreads--the Thanksgiving visit of his fraternal twin sister, the needy, and passive-aggressive Jill, who then refuses to leave.It wasn't as insufferable as I imagined, but being forced to listen to Sandler's grading performance coupled with awkward gross out moments was still a painful experience to say the least.
- DirectorPete DocterDavid SilvermanLee UnkrichStarsBilly CrystalJohn GoodmanMary GibbsIn order to power the city, monsters have to scare children so that they scream. However, the children are toxic to the monsters, and after a child gets through, two monsters realize things may not be what they think.Monsters Inc.'s charm truly shines in its creative world building, top notch voice work, and tender moments that will move even the scariest of monsters.
- DirectorJames GunnStarsMargot RobbieIdris ElbaJohn CenaSupervillains Harley Quinn, Bloodsport, Peacemaker, and a collection of nutty cons at Belle Reve prison join the super-secret, super-shady Task Force X as they are dropped off at the remote, enemy-infused island of Corto Maltese.James Gunn crafted an over the top, gory, action packed, sadistic, and incredibly hilarious R-rated Suicide Squad that encompassed everything the original was trying to be while also being a blast and a half.
- DirectorRob CohenStarsVin DieselPaul WalkerMichelle RodriguezLos Angeles police officer Brian O'Conner must decide where his loyalty really lies when he becomes enamored with the street racing world he has been sent undercover to destroy.There's enough creative stunts and a few likable characters to satisfy some audiences, although the film's writing, plot, and pacing are nothing to write home about.
- DirectorJudd ApatowStarsPete DavidsonBel PowleyRicky VelezScott has been a case of arrested development since his firefighter dad died. He spends his days smoking weed and dreaming of being a tattoo artist until events force him to grapple with his grief and take his first steps forward in life.This semi-biographical dramedy plays to a lot of Apatow's strengths and grounds itself through Pete Davidson's transparency as the main character and co-writer.
- DirectorPierre MorelStarsLiam NeesonMaggie GraceFamke JanssenA retired CIA agent travels across Europe and relies on his old skills to save his estranged daughter, who has been kidnapped while on a trip to Paris.The writing is nowhere near top notch, but as a 90 minute showcase of Neeson's dedicated performance with a few pretty intense scenes thrown in, it's a perfectly serviceable experience.
- DirectorMartin ScorseseStarsAndrew GarfieldAdam DriverLiam NeesonIn the 17th century, two Portuguese Jesuit priests travel to Japan in an attempt to locate their mentor, who is rumored to have committed apostasy, and to propagate Catholicism.A truly harrowing film that pushes the themes of faith in an emotionally draining way that can only be helmed by a director as masterfully skilled as Martin Scorsese.
- DirectorKent AltermanStarsWill FerrellWoody HarrelsonAndré 3000Jackie Moon, the owner-coach-player of the American Basketball Association's Flint Michigan Tropics, rallies his teammates to make their NBA dreams come true.I can't say it's that bad as there were a handful of funny moments, but the film ultimately feels like background noise that will only be worth seeing if you're a huge fan of Will Ferrell's brand of comedy.
- DirectorAlan ParkerStarsBrad DavisIrene MiracleBo HopkinsBilly Hayes, an American college student, is caught smuggling drugs out of Turkey and thrown into prison.Any film this well acted that can generate this amount of gut wrenching dread and investment for a main character requires at least one mandatory viewing per person.