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!