Happy Death Day

Happy Death Day
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

While you’re unlikely to die laughing (pun intended), Happy Death Day is a fun adaptation of Groundhogs Day that is sinfully amusing!

Straying from horror film norms, this isn’t a bloody slasher flick with gratuitous nudity. Instead, it’s a delightfully campy social commentary with mild-scares. Surprisingly, the lead character isn’t full of bad decisions either (ie; hiding in a graveyard or toolshed). While fighting to catch her killer and live another day, Jessica Rothe successfully translates the script without trying too hard; a feat that's often unaccomplished for this genre.

Best described as “stupid fun”, this is an appropriately rated PG-13 movie that ends in time before the novelty wears off.

Blade Runner 2049

Blade Runner 2049
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

Director Denis Villeneuve depicts a controversial possibility for the future of AI that is both sexy and smart. Beautifully illustrated, yet unnecessarily slow, this film would better be categorized as a drama that examines the human condition.

While the philosophy of desire and purpose are a large part of this story, the visuals take precedent over what could have been an impactful message. At nearly 3 hours long, the result is a movie that should have used it’s time more wisely. Ryan Gosling’s looks are more epic than the film itself.

Still, Blade Runner 2049 is a well-constructed art piece that is likely to spark conversation.

American Made

American Made
⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5

Surprisingly fascinating, American Made is a comedic look at a true story. Tom Cruise is a natural fit, though the pacing and cinematography are his biggest enemy. At times, the production seems like an action flick on Xanax confused as to whether or not it wants to be a documentary.

The moments of humor are effective and the story progresses in a way that’s easy for the viewer to follow. Relationship conflicts added depth and made Tom’s character relatable despite an unorthodox lifestyle.

It’s unlikely this film will win “Best movie of 2017”, but compared to the other releases the same week it surpasses the competition.

The Mountain Between Us

The Mountain Between Us
⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

This film is like a personals ad - everything about it sounds compelling, but it’s exaggerated. Beneath all the glam is something boring and generic.

As if the movie is unsure of itself, viewers will struggle to find empathy toward the characters. In moments of hardship, the cast seems to observe chaos instead of experience it. There’s a level of predictability one expects, but even the sporadic challenges and emotional moments could be seen coming from a mile away.

Viewers are unlikely to feel the pressure of seclusion or extreme conditions as time runs out. Moments of angst quickly dissolve and their growing relationship takes the forefront. Unlike “Cast Away” or “Passengers” which navigated both elements beautifully, this was a missed opportunity and the simplicity undermines its potential.

Flatliners (2017)

Flatliners
⭐️⭐️ out of 5

Who would have known a near-death experience could be so boring? Even at its most exciting parts, Flatliners feels anti-climactic and lacks depth.

Although the concept should be interesting enough to keep the film afloat, audiences are likely to grow tired as they wait to experience some type of thrill like the actors so desperately seek. At some point or another, viewers will realize the only thing they’re watching flatline is their enthusiasm for dropping $12 on a movie ticket.

Casting Ellen Page as lead role for this film was the director’s best and worst decision… her acting was superior which outshined the weak and mildly-amusing storyline.

Spider-Man: Homecoming

Spider-Man: Homecoming
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

If you’re worried this is just another remake, think again!

With cameos from iconic Marvel characters and a new take on Peter Parker’s adolescence, Director Jon Watts was spot-on with this film’s execution. Spider-Man: Homecoming is sure to engage audiences as much as it makes them chuckle.

What makes this film unique to its predecessors is the exploration of Spider-Man’s newfound abilities without focusing too heavily on how he got them. The curiosity and sense of adventure in this adaptation is more fitting to a high-schooler, which went unseen in the franchise’s earlier films.

Despite the fresh take and likeable cast, this chapter serves nostalgic value but is far from iconic. Perhaps this has less to do with the film itself and more to do with how tiresome the back-to-back Spider-Man films have become. In any regard, this is a great movie-night rental!

Leap!

Leap!
⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5

Though Leap! is an animated film, the story and dialogue are uncomfortably real. Highlighting the struggles aspiring ballet dancers face, the movie’s primary antagonist was unnecessarily mean for a children’s film. As if to shame blue-collar workers and anyone who lives a traditional (less privileged) life, the aggressor can be seen yelling “you are nothing” on several occasions.

Aesthetically the film is a masterpiece that gets overshadowed by its generic storyline. While exploring romantic relationships that have little relevance to the overall theme, there are also times the script seems to get lost in itself.

Long story short? What could have been a unique twist on a typical story was poorly executed. Leap! lacks grace and missed the beat.

Stronger

Stronger
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5

Rather than capitalizing on the gruesome tragedy that rocked Boston, this film was a respectful tribute to one survivors story.

Though the visual was simple at times, the complexity of Jake Gyllenhaal's character was emotionally compelling. The pain which the Bauman family experienced translated so clearly on screen that I watched grown men choke back tears in the theatre - the suffering was literally tangible.

At times, I felt the pace of the story moved slowly, though I believe the intention was to reflect the painfully lethargic/gradual process experienced in real life as the characters attempt to put the pieces back together.

I can't imagine myself feeling particularly motivated to watch this again, but I'm glad I saw it. The end product is timeless, motivational, and encourages reflection.

Kingsman: The Golden Circle

Kingsman: The Golden Circle
⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

While the movie's all star cast tries to save the world, viewers will find themselves wishing they would have saved their money and rented the film instead. It says a lot when action-packed graphics and a dozen iconic actors aren't enough to compensate for such a dull and predictable plot.

"Kingsman: The Golden Circle" starts with a bang, quickly exhausting itself of any potential to sustain that energy throughout the film. Instead of building to a climax, the movie feels redundant and hangs on the hope that viewers will find enjoyment in nostalgic value from this chapter's predecessor.

Annabelle: Creation

Annabelle: Creation
⭐️⭐️ out of 5

The most terrifying thing about this film is the embarrassment you could face when you fall asleep in the theater. While the story itself had potential, this movie falls flat on its face.

An elderly couple who lost their daughter (in an accident) begrudgingly open their house to some homeless orphans. Soon, one girl uncovers a dark secret that unleashes evil on the house. Sounds interesting, doesn't it? Sadly, this prequel is an unnecessary addition that builds to an anti-climactic plateau. While the atmosphere is moody and the script is compelling, you'll find yourself waiting for a big reveal that never comes. It's unfortunate because conceptually there was a lot of potential.

In the end, this is a good "introductory" horror flick to rent, nothing more.

Home Again

Home Again
⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

If you've ever wondered why romantic comedies get a bad rap, look no further. How this film managed to escape the "Lifetime movie" treatment and creep its way into theaters is mind-boggling.

While Reese Witherspoon is arguably one of Hollywood's most memorable American sweethearts, Home Again relies too heavily on her likeability and fails to stand on its own. The cast spent the vast majority of the movie smiling - so much that it felt like a pharmaceutical commercial. The humor was shallow, the acting was superficial, and the script was predictable.

Save your money and wait until you can watch this on TV with a box of cheap wine.

American Assassin

American Assassin
⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5

There's nothing extraordinary or surprising about this typical espionage flick, but if you're looking for some mindless entertainment it passes the time.

Director Michael Cuesta is well known for his work on TV shows like Blue Bloods and Homeland. Unfortunately, the formula he's gotten comfortable with on TV translates as generic on the silver screen. Viewers are likely to reflect on this production as a missed opportunity that was mechanical and predictable.

While none of the characters stand out as memorable, the casting was adequate - but an actor is only as good as his script. In the end, American Assassin is a glorified "direct to DVD" movie.

Mother!

Mother!
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

Brilliant, yet confusing. I literally had to google the meaning and still don't understand it. The pace of the movie rapidly changed (uncomfortably so) and left a lot of questions.

What started as a psychological thriller full of suspense ended in a barrage of psychedelic symbology that leaves you going "huh?". I refuse to say the movie is bad simply because I haven't been able to interpret the meaning. They did a great job triggering my anxiety and tastefully delivered gruesome imagery that is often over the top or sadistic.

My guess is most people will have a strong opinion one way or another about the film - either they'll enjoy it for what it's worth, or completely hate it and want their money back.

Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 out of 5

Quite possibly the best superhero movie of this decade, Wonder Woman delivers both style and substance.

The challenge with live-action adaptations from comic books is providing adequate context and history without seeming excessive. This film does a magnificent job of dissecting Diana's past, giving the viewer a deeper understanding of what fuels her in the present. While some critics would argue the pace seems sluggish in the first half, movie-goers who are new to the franchise will appreciate the insight and character development.

Ending with an adrenaline rush, it's easy to appreciate the fight sequences that appear in the final quarter! More importantly, director Patty Jenkins flawlessly captures the choreography without getting the viewer dizzy. Complimented with an impactful soundtrack, this high-intensity spectacle translates effortlessly. This film single-handedly revitalized my enthusiasm about superhero flicks.

If you haven't already, give Wonder Woman a chance. It's pure Hollywood magic!

IT

IT
⭐️1/2 out of 5

Perhaps the most over-hyped film of the year, Muschietti's adaptation of Stephen King's IT relies heavily on cheap thrills which are anything but scary. Fortunately, where the film lacks fear factor it makes up with comic relief.

Subscribing to usual horror flick clichés, the melodramatic gore and poor acting will likely seem superfluous and campy unless you have a genuine fear of clowns. Failing to build suspense, the director rapidly fires loud sounds and in-your-face graphics.

Considering the length of Stephen King's novel, this release did a fair job at remaining authentic to the original vision while eloquently reflecting the book's immense amount of detail. Hopefully the sequel will offer viewers a more impactful chapter because part 1 is missing the "it factor".

Used my new MoviePass!

Used my new MoviePass to see the IT "remake" and Wonder Woman. I love how cheap it is, and how easy it was to use. For only $10/mo you can basically see 1 movie a day IN THEATERS!