Companion- Ahhh, new year, a new slate of movies. And we'll start the year off with a quirky darkly comedic thriller. A young woman named Iris recounts the day she met her boyfriend, Josh. As the memories unfold, we're informed of the fateful trip the two of them took to an isolated lake house to party with friends, Kat, Eli, and Patrick. Kat's boyfriend, Sergey, who owns the house is there as well. After a night of merriment, tragedy strikes the next day sending Iris's life in a tailspin. As truths are revealed, it's clear Iris will never be the same. I've always been drawn to the strange and unusual which is why I had so much fun with this. You're thrown a lot of curves. Nothing is as it appears to be. There are several funny moments. There are horrifying moments. There's a rich tapestry that keeps you involved wondering where this movie is going to end up. Plus, there is a social consciousness the film is an allegory for domestic abuse. 2025 is starting with a bang. If we can expect movies like this, bring it on. Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid star.
***3/4 stars
Heart Eyes- The bastardization of another holiday through the lens of horror, Heart Eyes aims to drench the day of lovers in gory blood. It's Valentine's Day in Seattle and Ally is having a very bad day. She's recently broken up with her boyfriend. The ad she designed for the jewelry company she works for has been brutally ridiculed. And the cherry-on-top is the good-looking guy (Jay) she met in a coffee shop (a meeting she bumbled her way through) has been brought into her company to fix the ad she botched. Could things get any worse? The answer is always. The Heart Eyes Killer, a serial murderer who has targeted couples in various cities in the last three years, has decided to make Seattle his latest stop. And wouldn't you know, he happened to see Ally and Jay in a "fake" intimate moment and has the two of them in his sights. Heart Eyes is a unique movie. It really is a rom com with a slasher story woven in. There are times you might forget you're watching a horror movie because there are decent stretches of the film where the killer is absent. But when Heart Eyes does appear, it's bloody and brutal. Exactly what you demand of a slasher flick. There are some things I found absolutely preposterous such as why, even at night, are there only three cops inside of a metropolitan police station. But hey, what can you say about plot armor, right? The surprise for me though was I was actually intrigued by the budding relationship between Ally and Jay. The leads pulled this off very well. They made you care about them through the usual rom com tropes that can become very saccharine very quickly. Surprisingly enough, Heart Eyes could be considered a quirky date movie. Olivia Holt, Mason Gooding, and Jordana Brewster star.
***1/2 stars
The Gorge- Scott Derrickson directs this Apple TV sci-fi horror action film. It's the story of two elite snipers charged with guarding a mysterious gorge in an unknown location. Each sniper takes a post in large military-style towers on opposite ends of the gorge. Contents of what's in the gorge unknown, both are assigned to their posts for one year with the task of eliminating anything that might try to come out at any cost. You might be shocked to hear this. I was a bit shocked as I was watching this. There's actually a very sweet romantic movie woven into the fabric of the chaos. It surprised me for two reasons. Scott Derrickson is not known for romantic content. And why would you expect that from the director of movies like Doctor Strange, Black Phone, and one of my all-time favorite horror movies, Sinister? The second reason. I generally don't like the male lead in this movie. I usually find him smarmy, and he has a bad case of "punch me" face. But I felt his vibe in this one. He worked well with his female co-star. Their story was sweet amidst the horrors they eventually encounter. While I wouldn't say the horror angle of this was particularly scary, it was creepy and weird. And when the lead starts flying, it's a bloody good time. Miles Teller, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Sigourney Weaver star.
***1/2 stars
Captain America: Brave New World- The MCU begins 2025 with the fourth installment featuring their star-spangled hero. This time the Russo Brothers had over the directing reins to Julius Onah and Anthony Mackie takes over for Chris Evans as the title character. Flash forward a few years since we've last seen this iteration of Cap from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier TV series. Sam Wilson has cemented his status as the new Captain America. Complete with a new vibranium suit (courtesy of Wakanda), Sam has become a known commodity to friend and foe alike throughout the globe. And he's also become pretty accomplished with the iconic shield. Also returning is Sam's (and the Avengers) political nemesis, General "Thunderbolt" Ross, this time as the newly minted U.S. president. Both become embroiled in an intricate plot that seeks to discredit Ross at all costs, including possibly starting the next world war. Last year's Deadpool and Wolverine I believe was a "We're back" declaration by the MCU after a couple of down years where nothing seemed to connect, and everything felt very random after Endgame. However, that movie, while loads of fun, felt like a one-off type of feature (it may not be). Brave New World feels like the MCU is trying to establish some connecting tissue again. There are plotlines that harken back to previous material. And without giving too much away, this film does make "Eternals" an important piece of the MCU. Some of you may hate that. I have heard the less than flattering critiques of that production. But it is what it is. The other big plot point is the introduction of a new substance in the MCU that may not be familiar to those who are not as comic savvy but all too familiar to those who are. You have to wonder. Is this Disney's sly way of saying "They're coming?" Plus, I think it's safe to say if you have been living with internet access, two more Avengers movies are on the horizon. The seeds are planted here. Brave New World does a lot of world building that we haven't seen in the MCU for a bit. And while the usual MCU levity is there, I give Brave New World credit for taking a dip into some dramatic waters such as Sam feeling if he's an adequate replacement for Steve Rogers particularly since he made the decision NOT to take the Super Soldier Serum. There's Ross's longing to get back in the good graces of his daughter who hasn't spoken to him in the years following The Incredible Hulk. There are other significant dramatic arcs, but that would give too much away. The action sequences are fine. It's nothing Earth shattering, just normal standard things you've grown accustomed to in these films. There is a new Falcon who I thought would be annoying upon introduction, but proved to be a decent character who has a good rapport with Sam. All told, I thought Brave New World did a good job of building bridges and acknowledging the past without doing too much. It felt coherent. It's a movie more along the lines of the political intrigue of The Winter Soldier than the straight superhero actioner of Civil War if you're comparing Cap movies. There is only one end credit scene which is a bit strange. But it is a dread foreshadow of what's to come. On the road to the next Avengers film, this is a good foundation to build on. Harrison Ford and Giancarlo Esposito co-star. There are other notables, but I'll save those for now.
***3/4 stars
The Monkey- Osgood Perkins, director of the strange but intriguing Silence-of-the-Lambs-like 2024 thriller, Longlegs, takes on horror comedy in this adaptation of a Stephen King short story. Twin brothers, Bill and Hal Shelburn, "inherit" a drum playing monkey toy they find among their absent father's belongings. This is no ordinary monkey toy. For when you wind the key in back to make the monkey drum, horrific deaths follow. And don't think you can focus the monkey's wrath. This little organ grinder primate will orchestrate the death of who it wants and when it wants. The plot is very Final Destination-ish in the absurd manners in which people die. And Perkins gives a little wink and nod to the absurdity by making most of the deaths more than a little slapstick in nature. There is a death scene that will remind you of those old classic cartoons on "how to build a better mousetrap" it is so ludicrous. There's only one killing I can recall that was taken seriously and happens to be a driving factor in the movie. There are some plot holes and story fragments that could have done with a deeper dive. The message conveyed of not letting grief destroy who you are is a bit muddied with the silly humor which isn't necessarily clever. But, it's a jolly, if grisly way to spend 90 minutes. Theo James, Elijah Wood, and Tatiana Maslany star.
***1/4 stars
Mickey 17- Director Bong Joon Ho brings us another quirky black comedy in a dystopian future where cloning is the feature. Mickey Barnes is a financially destitute schmoe whose latest business venture with his friend, Timo, has gone belly up. To make matters worse, they owe a lot of money to a murderous loan shark. What to do. The answer comes in the form of a spaceship leaving Earth to colonize the planet Niflheim. Timo joins the crew as a shuttle pilot. Mickey? He signs up to be an "Expendable." Translation. Mickey will essentially become the ship's lab rat, exposed to any and all types of viruses, strenuous physical activities, and dangerous encounters on and off ship for the crew scientists to study. Every time Mickey dies, he's regenerated with an Earth-banned cloning technology. For 16 iterations, Mickey undergoes this grueling process only for version 17 to stubbornly not die on the latest mission. But what happens when a supposed-to-be deceased 17 meets freshly cloned 18? Bong Joon Ho has a flair for the bizarre to be sure. Does anyone remember Parasite from 2019? This film has a fair amount of political satire as hierarchy of the ship, an egomaniacal politician and his devious, controlling wife, are the most over-the-top caricatures you'll find in film. It's an amusing movie at times but also a bit sad. Mickey is such an unassuming and pitiful character. The fact that he has absolutely nowhere to go in life for a good portion of the runtime is a bit depressing to be honest. But your heart will be gladdened as he slowly rises to become something more. Mickey 17 is a bit overlong for me. Don't expect huge laughs. Its odd absurdities should keep most entertained throughout. Robert Pattinson, Mark Ruffalo, Toni Collette, and Steven Yuen star.
***1/4 stars
Novocaine- The directing duo of Dan Berk and Robert Olsen (didn't know they were a thing before now) bring us this unique action comedy. Nathan Caine is a mild-mannered assistant bank manager in San Diego. An introvert, his only real "friend" is his online gaming partner. Enter Sherry, a teller at his bank, who takes a liking to him. After much initial hesitation, Nathan gives in and now he's king of the world. Life has never been this good for him. So, of course, bank robbers not only rob his credit union, but also take Sherry hostage. What is Nathan to do except pursue the kidnapping thieves and rescue the woman he loves. But it's particularly dangerous for Nathan. He has a rare condition of congenital insensitivity to pain. Meaning he can't feel it. Advantage? He can take a beating and keep coming. Disadvantage? He can never feel how gravely injured he is. This movie was wild. It's funny but not really riotously so I thought. The focus to me was more on the action than the comedy. That wasn't a bad thing necessarily, but I was expecting a little more slapstick lunacy. Without the quirk of Nathan's condition, it is a standard action movie. But let's talk about that quirk. This movie exists to gross you out albeit in a farcical way. Some of the injuries Nathan suffers will just make you cringe. Particularly one kill that's made with a broken...I'll let you watch it yourself. Novacaine is a different kind of duck that's for sure. A highly entertaining one as well. Jack Quaid, Amber Midthunder, and Jacob Batalon star.
***1/2 stars
*** stars
Drop- The madmen at Blumhouse bring us this almost Hitchcockian suspense thriller that plays on the theme of first date hell. Sometime after the traumatic death of her husband, widowed mother, Violet Gates, has finally agreed to meet photographer, Henry, from a dating app. Leaving her young son in the care of her sister, she meets Henry at a lavish high-rise restaurant. Getting over the first date jitters becomes the least of her issues when she mysteriously begins receiving text messages from an unknown user escalating to an eventual demand. Violet kills her date or risks the deaths of her son and sister. But why? What is her date caught up in? Why Violet? There is a restaurant full of potential suspects. Can she figure out the mystery before she has to do the unspeakable? Drop is a fairly tight thriller for about three quarters of its run. That's mostly due to the interaction between Violet and Henry. They're good together. They're likable. They're believable. The tension is a slow build but it doesn't bore you. The cinematography is incredible. The restaurant looks amazing. You have a sense of depth as far just how high in the sky everyone is. Also, of particular note are the camera fades on Violet when her dilemma is brought to light. It adds to the sense of dread and isolation she's feeling. Like the world has closed in on her. So why am I not going to give this as high of a grade as you might think? I mentioned before that three quarters of this film are really tight and intense. The last quarter is contrivance after contrivance after contrivance. It ceased to be believable, or as believable as a story of this nature can be. So many little conveniences. So many situations that would not, should not have happened. That's why I have to curb my excitement. It's still a very watchable movie but it just didn't stick the landing the way it should have. Meghann Fahy and Brandon Sklenar star.
***1/4 stars
The Amateur- Vigilante spy thriller is not a combination of words I'd ever thought I would use but here we are. Charlie Heller is a brilliant CIA cryptographer whose wife is murdered by terrorists in London. Distraught and seeking vengeance, Charlie embarks on a quest to take out those responsible for the death of his wife which may lead him down roads leading back to his superiors in the CIA. In many ways The Amateur is a standard revenge thriller. In some ways, it isn't. Charlie is a very unconventional vigilante. He is not intimidating, borderline psychotic, or pugilistic in the least. He kills with his superior mind and ingenuity. He always has an answer. Sometimes a little too much to be credible, but it's still entertaining to watch. The character is sold very well by Rami Malek. It's a solid thriller but, honestly, you already saw the best action sequences in the trailer. Laurence Fishburne, Rachel Brosnahan, and Jon Bernthal co-star.
***1/2 stars
Wolf Man- This new iteration of the classic Universal horror icon is directed by one of the current gurus of the genre, Leigh Whannell. Whannell directed a modern-day masterpiece retelling of another Universal icon in 2020, The Invisible Man. So, can Whannell pull another rabbit out of his hat? Blake Lovell is a writer in San Francisco who has just inherited his childhood home in a forested region of Oregon after the death of his father. Hoping to mend the tensions between himself, his wife, and his daughter, the three decide to vacation in Oregon only for the worst of fates to befall them. A humanoid creature is stalking the woods. After Blake is injured, let's just say, he's not the same as he was. Will his frightened wife and daughter survive the night with Blake on the inside of the house and whatever is hunting outside? With Universal attempting to create a "Monsterverse", they've experienced some ups and downs. The attempted revival of The Mummy in 2017 was a colossal flop. The Invisible Man was a well-acclaimed hit. Wolf Man? Unfortunately, pretty bland. There is a bit of gross-out imagery and body-horror transformation. But, overall, this was a bit boring and lifeless. I didn't really care if anyone made it out alive to be honest. No character resonated with me in any way. I really wanted to like this but it just wasn't to be. I thought it lacked creativity (which The Invisible Man had in spades) and suspense. Two absolute killers dealing with the horror genre. I don't know what this bodes for Universal's Monsterverse but this was a misstep. Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner star.
**3/4 stars
Sinners- Director Ryan Coogler takes a break from superheroing and boxing to take a stab at a new genre. Horror. The time is 1932. Twin brother gangsters, Elijah and Elias Moore (better known as "Smoke" and "Stack"), have returned from World War I and the city of crime known as Chicago to their home in the Mississippi Delta. Their aim? Creating a lucrative night spot filled with booze, music, food, and gambling for the poor sharecropping black community in the area. Given the time period, they of course have to combat the requisite racism from the white community that might be looking to do more than shut them down. There's a new threat in the Delta that no one, black or white, is prepared to deal with. And on one fateful night, drawn by the soul-grabbing Blues music as well as the large crowd, this threat is going to come calling. Can the "Smokestack" Twins and their guests survive the evening? This movie has some parallels with the cult classic "From Dusk Til Dawn." The first half is a slow burn drama. It's not boring by any means but it is all set up introducing you to the principal characters, as well as some prominent secondary ones. That includes our villains in the last few minutes. Then it all hits the fan. Not in the comically grotesque and ludicrous way FDTD does. But people start dying quite horribly. You can probably take a wild stab at what the villains are by now and it's a monster that's been used to death in cinema. But Coogler does something different here. He adds a spice to the old tropes. One that's spiritual in nature. You particularly see this in a musical scene that's cool and a bit trippy to behold at the same time. The music reaches into the spirit world drawing the evil to it which is a theme talked about early in the film. And I have to say the music does reach to your soul a bit. Then of course tying this in with the deep social injustices of the time was a precarious balancing act. This was a very different way to approach the horror genre. Coogler and the cast pull it off magnificently. There is a mid-credit scene that could prompt more looks into this world if Coogler decides it's warranted (and if the movie makes enough money). My personal opinion? Let this one stand alone as the tragic, macabre thriller it is. Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Delroy Lindo, and newcomer, Miles Caton, star.
**** stars
Until Dawn- Yet another film based on a video game. To be more specific, another horror movie based on a video game. These can be very hit and miss. So which camp does this one drop in? Clover and her friends are on the hunt for her sister, Melanie, who disappeared a year prior. Investigating the mysterious valley of her disappearance, Clover and company encounter a strange house where they are repeatedly attacked by fearsome killers and creatures who summarily slay them all. Only for each to wake up again at the beginning of their entrance into the house. This Groundhog Day time loop will continue until they can figure out why this happening and get it right. Survive "until dawn." And therein lies the issue with this movie. A haphazard concept like this has been done before in movies like Happy Death Day and Cabin in the Woods. But what made those movies fun was having a story behind the madness. A glue that brought the craziness together. There's no glue here. I dare you to watch this and find me a coherent plot. It's a bunch of grisly deaths strung together. They're brutal and sometimes amusing but to this minute that I'm writing this, I'm still asking myself what the purpose was? And do I feel for any of these characters being whacked? Not particularly. Even when the explanation of sorts is given, I'm still confused as to why it all happened in the first place. The only reason this gets as high of a grade as it does is due to some of the deaths being kind of gnarly. And even with that, some of them are only recordings on a smartphone that weren't allowed to play out in the movie itself! Ella Rubin and Peter Stormare star.
** stars
Havoc- This Netflix streamer is an action crime thriller written and directed by Gareth Evans, famously known for directing chaotic action if you know his previous work. Patrick Walker is an ex-Narcotics-turned-homicide detective currently on the payroll of real estate tycoon and current mayoral candidate, Lawrence Beaumont. When Beaumont's son, Charlie, gets caught up in the theft of a large shipment of cocaine resulting in the grave injury of a pursuing detective, Walker, who has many of his own demons, is called on by Beaumont to find him. What ensues is a web of chaos involving Triads, crooked cops, and a whole lot of bullets and death. Havoc is a movie that more than lives up to its name. Fans of action will not be disappointed. Bullets fly, the sequences are long, deaths are grisly. And one signature of a Gareth Evans film you'll notice here. Everyone seems to know how to fight with firearms and their hands. The movie does have a lot of style but how many times have you seen dirty cops and gangs? Nothing new here but it does entertain for its moderate runtime. Tom Hardy, Timothy Olyphant, Forrest Whittaker, and Luis Guzman star.
***1/2 stars
Thunderbolts*- What would the Summer be without the MCU? The 2025 Summer movie season kicks off with the second of three MCU installments for the year. Who are the Thunderbolts? They've been many different characters in the comic world. Here in the MCU, they start out forming under the same auspices as their comic counterparts. A world where the Avengers are absent. Six individuals (Yelena Belova, Red Guardian, Bucky, John Walker, Ghost, and "Bob") even more ragtag than the Guardians of the Galaxy come together through the machinations of CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. When a threat more powerful than any god emerges, how does this band of rejects sort through their own sordid pasts to save the day? The odds are not with them. There have been some comparisons of the Thunderbolts to DC's Suicide Squad. While I do see some parallels, I kind of liken them more to The Losers if anyone remembers that 2010 movie. In any case, Thunderbolts surprised me with its heart. Each member has something that's not quite right in their lives. When the Winter Soldier is the most well-adjusted of your group, the team has some deep-seated issues. They're all dealing with their own forms of loneliness and isolation. Red Guardian has his share of scene-stealing moments with his bombastic enthusiasm but the star here is Yelena. After this film, I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that this character is the breakout star of the MCU post Endgame. The character has heart, wit, sarcasm, and, in this movie, a great deal of vulnerability we've only seen glimpses of prior. We'll always remember Natasha Romanoff. But Yelena Belova is a one-of-a-kind character. But it isn't just the Yelena and Red Guardian show. Everyone had an opportunity to shine here, even "Bob." Yeah, there's a story there. Keen comic book afficionados have probably already guessed who he is. Let me also give some credit to the director, Jake Scherer, for telling a compelling superhero story about a group of oddballs. James Gunn does it well, but not everyone can mix drama and comedy (looking at you Taika). Yes, Thunderbolts has the typical MCU humor but it's nothing I found that went overboard. The dramatic moments were left as dramatic moments. Since this is an MCU film, of course there are credit scenes. This time we are back to a mid and end credit scene. The mid is a funny but throwaway one. The end is some great foreshadowing for what's to come. I got the same feeling for this one I had when I saw the end credit scene from Iron Man 2 many years ago which is just a feeling of giddy excitement. And this time you won't have to wait too long for it to come to fruition. If you're still wondering what I'm talking about, break out Iron Man 2. I had a very good time with this movie. I think it easily reaches the upper echelon of the MCU releases. Oh, and one last thing. That asterisk you see behind the title has meaning. But you'll have to watch to know what it is. Outstanding performances by Florence Pugh and David Harbour. Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus reprise their roles from previous MCU films/series. And I would be remiss leaving "Bob" out of the equation (Lewis Pullman).
****1/2 stars
Clown in a Cornfield- Yes you read that title correctly. More shocking, this slasher movie is based on a novel. You know me. With a title this bizarre, I had to check this out. Kettle Springs, Missouri. A quaint little piece of Americana in the Heartland. Home to the Baypen corn syrup factory and its mascot, Frendo the Clown. A small-town paradise is what we have here. Except for one troubling little thing. Every so often someone disguised as Frendo starts murdering the youth. Enter Quinn Maybrook and her father who have recently relocated to Kettle Springs after suffering a tragedy. When the killings start again shortly after her arrival, who can Quinn trust? Her new clique of eccentric school friends or the concerned adults in town. Will she survive Frendo long enough to determine friend from foe? This film was directed by Eli Craig. If you're not familiar with him, he gave us the ridiculous but cleverly funny "Tucker and Dale vs. Evil." If you remember that, then you know you're in for some good chuckles amidst the blood spattering gore. But the movie did surprise me a bit with its social commentary. There are themes here that are very relevant to today's cultural climate and the misunderstandings that occur between generations. But it also has plenty of gross mass murder going for it if that's your kink. It's a fairly straightforward slasher orgy, no alcohol required to sit through it.
***1/2 stars
Love Hurts- Who's in for another action comedy? Love Hurts is the tale of Marvin Gable, a successful real estate agent who is not all that he seems (you knew that was coming). In a past life, Marvin was the highly skilled assassin for his brother's criminal organization. Now on the eve of his greatest achievement in his new profession, an old flame comes back into his life and his brother is sending other assassins to "convince" Marvin to work for him again. Have the old skills been buried too deep and too long within Marv? Or will he let the beast come out and play again. While I was entertained by Love Hurts, something in me says this might have played a little better for me if it was more ludicrously over-the-top violent. Like say, "Killers Game" or "Bullet Train." There's violence but it almost felt like the movie held back a bit to focus more on its comedic and lovelorn aspects. The fights we do have are credible, if ridiculous. And of course, Marvin should have died maybe a dozen times. It's amusing but again I think if the movie had been more violent that would have been amusing in and of itself. I was entertained just not as entertained as I thought I could have been. Ke Huy Quan, Ariana DeBose, Daniel Wu, Mustafa Shakir, Sean Astin, and Marshawn Lynch star.
***1/4 stars
Black Bag- What do we have here? A spy thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh, a well-known highly decorated director. In addition, a well-respected actor and actress have the two lead roles. All is set for a mind blowing movie experience. Let's go! George Woodhouse and Kathryn St. Jean are a happily married couple. Both are also British Intelligence Agents. When George is given an important assignment to weed out a leak in the organization, George targets a handful of suspects. Unfortunately, one of them happens to be his wife. Oh, the dilemma. Which choice will George make? His country or his love? The setup sounds pretty good, right? I was totally prepared sight unseen to call this one of the best films of the year. I tried so hard to like this. But, I just...couldn't. And it had a short runtime of 94 minutes to boot. Why did I feel like I was watching this for two and half hours? This felt nothing more than a bunch of scenes strung together that I cared nothing about. There was nothing dynamic. No character was particularly interesting. I guess some will admire the simplicity in that particular area but a little eccentricity in this movie would have gone a long way. There was nothing but a cold stoicism from almost every character save one who stabs her boyfriend through the hand at a dinner party. Believe me, that's the best part of the movie. No element in the story was particularly moving. I thought this would be much more than it was. I just didn't care about anything that was invading my eyeballs. A real disappointment. Michael Fassbender, Cate Blanchett, Naomie Harris, and Pierce Brosnan star.
** stars
Bring Her Back- Twin brother directors, Danny and Michael Philippou, return to take another stab at supernatural horror. Their 2023 debut outing, Talk to Me, was a surprisingly cerebral piece of work in the genre. Can the brothers repeat their past success? After the sudden death of their father, teenager Andy and his younger visually impaired stepsister, Piper are placed in foster care. They are placed under the care of Laura. Laura is kind and a bit eccentric. She also has a third child under her care, a mute preteen boy named Oliver. Laura takes a particular liking to Piper who reminds her of her deceased daughter. Almost immediately strange things seem to happen to and around Andy that he can't explain. Also, as Laura's favor increases for Piper, her disdain for Andy grows. Then there's Oliver. A very strange child indeed who pierces you with a haunting stare. What exactly is going on in this house? Will Andy and Piper survive long enough to unravel the mystery? Hoo boy! I didn't listen to the video, but I saw one review of this on YouTube captioned "I need a shower. And a hug." I say that's an accurate statement. So much of the imagery made me squirm in my seat. Some was downright was downright nastiness. The Philippous have effectively orchestrated another complex plot filled with tragedy where there are definite unhinged bad people. But these are also somewhat sympathetic characters. It's an interesting dynamic. The central theme here is how people deal with loss and letting go. And the pitfalls of not being able to do the latter in maybe the most lunatic way imaginable. The Philippous are a different kind of horror maker. Their stories reach into your mind and make you extremely uncomfortable. That is the mark of good horror. Sally Hawkins stars
***3/4 stars
From the World of John Wick: Ballerina- The title pretty much tells you everything doesn't it. The fifth overall entry in the John Wick franchise and a side story offshoot between John Wick Chapters 3 and 4 (more accurately a side story to Chapter 3), we are set to explore more insights into this wild and crazy assassins' world. Eve Macarro is taken in by the Ruska Roma as a girl when her father is mortally wounded by a clan of assassins known as The Cult. As part of the Ruska Roma, Eve, is trained in the art of ballet which is just a front for the RR's clandestine business of assassination and protection. Becoming a highly proficient killer, Eve is attacked by a Cult assassin after completing an assignment. She recognizes an insignia on his skin as one she saw as a girl when her father was murdered. Forbidden by the Director of the RR to pursue the Cult, Eve bucks orders and seeks answers and revenge. The bullets are going to fly and bones are going to break as Eve takes on waves of assassins to reach the Cult's leader known only as The Chancellor. It was a nice change to see this world from a different character's perspective. I did enjoy that the film tried to flesh out Eve's character a bit in the sense that we saw the type of intense training that is needed for this line of work in this world. As much as we all love the character of John Wick, we've always just blindly accepted he's the badass Baba Yaga not really ever knowing how he got there. Another good thing is Eve, while very good at what she does, is not invincible. She's not Wick and you felt like she was in real peril many times. In fact, she gets schooled by him in this film. Yes, the cat's out of the bag. The man himself has a few scenes. However, the narrative still distinctly belongs to Eve and her quest. She's a similar but different type of fighter who "fights like a girl" to achieve the same brutal results. Hey, that was a quote from the movie and it's the end credits song (thanks Shazam). Just like every other movie in the franchise, the action is phenomenally ludicrous. It comes at you constantly rarely stopping for a breath. It was good to see some familiar faces and locales that belong to this universe. One thing I do worry about as I sat through the end, I hope if this becomes a franchise in and of itself that it is different from JW in significant ways. What I saw at the end was just a rehash of its parent franchise. However, this is a highly entertaining spin-off. It largely hits the sweet spot of the first two chapters and avoids much of the rampant silliness of chapters 3 and 4. Ana de Armas, Keanu Reeves, Ian McShane, Anjelica Huston, Lance Reddick (final on-screen performance), Gabriel Byrne, and Norman Reedus star.
***3/4 stars
M3gan 2.0- The sequel to 2022 killer robot horror phenom is here. But did we really want it to be? Need it to be? Was M3gan just screeching for a sequel to be made? We start out 2.0 introducing a new android that has been purposed for military use (of course it has) using M3gan's A.I. code. AMELIA quickly goes rogue pursuing her own hidden agenda. Meanwhile, what has happened to the original "techies" who created M3gan? Roboticist, Gemma, has forged a fledgling cyber company with friends/colleagues Cole and Tess. She is still the guardian of her niece, Cady (now 12), who is pursuing an interest in computer science much to her aunt's chagrin. When AMELIA begins eliminating everyone involved with her creation, could the originators of the M3gan A.I. that was used be next on her list? Speaking of M3gan...is her story truly over? I was and still am a fan of the first film. However, I do understand how it may not have aged well for some. To be honest, I wasn't sure how much I was going to enjoy the sequel from the trailers I saw. Turning the killer robot into a bit of an action hero had me scratching my head a bit. But it strangely works in this movie. I applaud the creative minds behind the script. So many sequels, particularly horror ones, are just so garbage compared to their predecessors. M3gan 2.0 feels like it is part the universe created in the first film while uniquely being its own thing in this one. That's not an easy feat to pull off. It's bigger and bolder but still maintains the same wit and snarkiness of the original. It's preposterous of course. But it's a really good time. I hope audiences will give it a fair shot. It's deserving of it. Allison Williams stars
***1/2 stars
A Minecraft Movie- Yet another movie in the video game genre. I've never played myself, so I will not be commenting on the nuances this film nailed, omitted, or botched from the game. Gamers will have to make that determination themselves. What I can tell you is this is the story of Steve, an everyday man who yearns for something better in life. He discovers that something in the form of the Orb of Dominance which opens a portal to a strange land called Overworld where Steve's creativity has free reign to reshape the cube world to his desire. Stumbling across another hellish world called the Nether, Steve gets into some trouble that will take a combined collaboration of his creativity, a washed-up video game champion, a brother-sister duo, and their real estate agent/petting zoo owner to solve. What is there to say about this one? It was fun. It made me laugh a few times. Ultimately, though it just felt like a big vehicle to let the two main stars chew the scenery in their own unique ways. And chomp down they did. It was both at their max silliness. Is there much of a plot? Not really. Do you care that much? Not really. It's a shut your brain off nonsensical good time. Don't try to make anything else of it. Jason Mamoa and Jack Black star.
*** stars
The Old Guard 2- A sequel five years in the making. This made for Netflix franchise continues the adventures of a handful of near-immortal warriors in the modern day. It's a rough day at the office for leader, Andromache (Andy). Not only is she dealing with the loss of her immortality, her long lost love, Quynh, has returned from her centuries-old aquatic tomb. And Quynh is none too happy about Andy's "abandonment." Not only that, but a new player has entered the field threatening Andy and her team. A player with her own agenda who may be older than Andy herself. The one thing I can say about both Old Guard movies is the fight coordination is excellent. Fast paced but not so fast that everything is a blur. I love the realism of the combat as well. When you fight as much as these guys do, you're going to get tagged and they all get some gnarly injuries. But we're also dealing with a bunch of Wolverines here so we get that superhero factor, too. As for the story, I wasn't quite as enamored as I was with the first even though we do delve a little deeper into the immortal's lore. Knowing more still leaves you with a lot of questions that I'm not sure how I feel about. The door is wide open for an Old Guard 3 so hopefully those questions will be answered in the next go around. It just makes me nervous because so often, narratives with so many strings don't come together in satisfying ways. But we shall see. Overall, this is a fine follow-up to its predecessor following almost immediately where the last left off. It's one you should enjoy if you liked the original. Charlize Theron, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Uma Thurman star.
***1/2 stars
Opus- Imagine. An eccentric 1990's pop star, Alfred Moretti, is releasing new music after spending decades in retirement. This is the setup for the new thriller by first time director, Mark Anthony Green. Yes, that's not a typo. I said thriller. Upon announcement of his new album, the star invites a select media group to his compound in Utah for an early listening party. Upon arrival at the compound, it becomes apparent that all is not as it seems with the strange and bizarre appearance and actions of Moretti's staff. As I was watching this, I immediately had thoughts of a film similar in tone from a few years ago, The Menu. Unfortunately, Opus doesn't have the same quirkiness or subversive meaning. Outside of John Malkovich looking like he's having the time of his life chewing the scenery, the journey getting to the chaos is rather standard. No other characters stand out or are really given an opportunity to do so unlike The Menu. The reveal doesn't gradually unfold here. As soon as the group enters the compound, any normal person would say, "Turn me the hell around and get me out of here." The other characters aren't awful. They just didn't stand out for me. The Ralph Fiennes' character in The Menu was a ticking timebomb. Malkovich, while fun to watch, is a foghorn of "Ruh Roh." None of this is to say Opus is a bad movie. I just know I've seen this premise done better. In addition to Malkovich, Ayo Edebiri, Juliette Lewis, Tony Hale, and Amber Midthunder co-star.
***1/4 stars
Superman- Okay. No pretense here. We all know who Big Blue is. We know Lois Lane. We know Lex Luthor. Actually, we know director, James Gunn, too. The question is if Gunn's reboot of the DC cinematic universe is going to hit the ground running. Gunn's quirky energy made the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy one of the most successful and beloved in the MCU. Will that magic translate? Kind of. I won't get too much into the plot outside of it being the age-old conflict of the benevolent godlike alien vs the megalomaniacal billionaire businessman. There is a very definite tonal shift from the previous Snyderverse version of the Superman character. Clark is troubled, but he's not a brooder. This Clark is definitely more self aware of the damage he can cause. I think Gunn's Superman successfully strikes a happy medium between ultra-serious and the "aww shucks" clumsy nerd. There's humor but it didn't feel forced. New characters are introduced in the form of the "Justice Gang" who have their "Superfriends" style Hall of Justice. While I didn't mind Guy Gardner, Hawkgirl, and Mr. Terrific, I didn't find them completely necessary. This is supposed to be Superman's movie and the first stop of the DC reboot. I do like that this is not an origin story. The opening gives a clear idea of where we are in the Superman timeline. Now. I'm sure you've all probably heard by now from certain factions of the internet and even some politically directed celebrities how "woke" Gunn's movie is. And I won't lie to you. He's definitely making some statements about things. The war between two nations as the central conflict in the movie is an allegory for what is currently happening in the Middle East. You also have a clear statement on the corrupting influence of money in government. And, of course, the big bugaboo in our country these days, immigration. I've said before in other reviews that your feeling of how ham fisted you think these references are solely depends on your political leanings. I didn't think these ideals distracted from the superhero hijinks we're all here to see. But again. I'm not necessarily someone who would be offended by these things. It did strike me as a little odd that this Superman spends a good three quarters of this film getting pummeled. Yes, from the opening scene Supes spends most of the movie being dog walked. But when the truth is revealed, it makes sense why this is happening. Speaking of dogs, and this is no reflection on the rest of the cast, Krypto stole every scene he was in. David Corenswet brought a wider range of emotion than I was expecting. Quiet acceptance, vulnerability, righteous anger, exasperation, and fairly decent comic timing were all present. His relationship with Lois is a bit different than what we've seen in the past as far as where we enter that relationship to open. Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor is much improved than the previous Snyderverse Lex. Decidedly and unabashedly evil. So, my conclusion is the DC reboot is off to...an okay start. This was solid enough but full disclosure I'm not the biggest Superman fan. This movie has done nothing to change that. But I will say I wouldn't be opposed to seeing this combination of Clark, Lois, and Lex in the future. Rachel Brosnahan, Nathan Fillion, Isabella Merced, and Edi Gathegi co-star with Corenswet and Hoult.
***1/4 stars
Fantastic Four: First Steps- The final leg of the MCU's 2025 campaign is its...37th in the franchise? Wow, that's a lot of cinema. Not to mention this is the fifth stab taken cinematically at this particular group of characters. The previous results have not been particularly well received. But Marvel's first family has never been officially depicted in the MCU either. So, what does Marvel Studios have in mind? We start on a new world. A new Earth (828). The Fantastic Four (Reed and Susan Richards, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm) are this world's super powered protectors. In fact, the only superheroes it would appear. They have been heroes for a few years at the opening and are beloved by all. Then it happens. Impending doom is coming to the planet. Heralded by a strange silver-coated woman who warns "Galactus" is coming. Who or what is Galactus? And is our super quartet a beacon for the arrival? First, let me say, like in my most recent Superman review, I'm happy this wasn't another origin story. The FF's history is primarily told in news reels at the beginning of the film. Second, I feel this time, they got the Four's characterizations right. For the first time actually. Well, let me say Roger Corman's unreleased movie was the closest in characterization prior to this (production values were horrid). The Thing wasn't quite as rough and gruff as he is normally depicted. He is more affable, but still quietly displays the sad loneliness his condition has placed him in. Johnny is the brash kid who has some surprising smarts about him. Susan is the heart and soul. The rock that keeps them all together (while arguably being the most powerful of all of them). Then there's Reed. I'll be honest. I like the actor a lot. But when I heard he was cast as Reed Richards, I didn't see it. Now while I still don't think he looks anything like the comic rendition of Reed, his spirit was captured beautifully. This is the Mister Fantastic we've been waiting for all these years. Brilliant. Always trying to solve puzzles. An almost absent-minded approach to life when he's not trying to solve the mysteries of the universe. The chemistry he has with Sue is undeniable. These two really do feel like a married couple for the first time on the big screen. The Silver Surfer (although she is never called this) looked about as good in CGI as I guess you can make a silver-coated being look. I maybe would have liked to see a little more background other than a brief flashback. I won't lie. I would have preferred that the Surfer been Norrin Radd instead of Shalla Bal for a nerdy purist sake. But Shalla Bal took nothing away from the story. Now Galactus. Standing ovation. A far cry from the energy cloud we saw in Rise of the Silver Surfer. He was big. He was intimidating. He was scary as hell with his glowing eyes. When he came calling you felt the danger in your seat. Which brings me to another item. This movie took a bit of a different approach than most others in the genre. Usually, hero sees bad guy, hero punches bad guy. I did like the fact that the FF originally found Galactus in an attempt to negotiate rather than brawl. It's a subtle thing but I liked that approach. Let's talk about the world itself this FF lives in. This is definitely not the regular MCU Earth 616. This is very much a retro 60s style world with advanced technology I'm guessing mostly due to Reed's genius. Nothing has the modern slick and stylishness to it. It very much felt like an homage to the FF's original creation in the 1960s, even down to their rocket spacecraft being called "The Excelsior." I don't want to say the movie is a slow burn but it does have many family moments and reflective ones between the action sequences. Overall, I loved this. We finally got a Fantastic Four movie to be proud of and it should forever put to rest that the FF may not be good on the big screen. They can be. It just took the right creative minds and cast to pull it off. It's a Marvel movie so there is a mid and post credit scene. The post is a throwaway. Amusing but not meaningful in any way. The mid is the meat. That's what you want to stay for. It gives you some foreshadowing of how this world plays into what is coming. Without the scene, First Steps is very much a stand alone movie. One final thing on kind of a nitpicky note. How freaking strong is the Human Torch to be able to carry the Thing in the air for any period of time? On that I call shenanigans. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Josehp Quinn, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ralph Ineson, Julia Garner, and Natasha Lyonne star.
****1/4 stars
Happy Gilmore 2- Can't be mad at Adam Sandler. Happy Madison Productions has a sweetheart multi-year, multi-film deal with Netflix that has him swimming in cash. He can make what he wants and use whoever he wants in his productions. We should all be so lucky. He can even greenlight a sequel to a classic sports comedy after 30 years. Hence, we get the latest Netflix streamer, Happy Gilmore 2. I'm sure no one needs a recap of the original. So, after 30 years, what's up with the failed-hockey-player-turned-golfer? Life has been good for Happy. For a little while at least. He's gone on to win five gold jackets during his career. He married the love of his life, Virginia. They have five children (4 with Happy's volatile temper). Everything has come up roses for Happy. Until a tragic accident by his own hand sends him deep into the bottle and destroys his life. However, when his daughter shows promise as a dancer, it's time to pull himself up and dust off the old clubs. The bad boy of golf has to find his groove again against a rival pro golf organization that will do any and everything to win. Full honesty, when I saw the trailer for HG2, I wasn't impressed. I almost dreaded watching this because I loved the first so much and do wholeheartedly believe it's a comedy classic. The incident that derails Happy is a tad off putting. I guess it's supposed to be darkly comic but it's weird. I wasn't expecting a lot of mileage out of this one. Despite all of that, I laughed at quite a few scenes. You get the same type of lowbrow humor that you get with most of Sandler's movies. And a lot of jokes from the first movie are rehashed. But there's enough new things interjected that keep it from being monotonous. HG2 is also very big on nostalgia. Pay close attention to the graveyard scene for a little subtlety. Then there's a scene near the end that is completely in your face nostalgia. And what is a Happy Gilmore movie without Hal and everyone's favorite poop for breakfast eater, Shooter McGavin? I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked this one. It's a bit overlong at almost two hours. I wouldn't necessarily call this one a classic. But if you're looking for a good time and you're a fan of the first, sit down with this one and give it a whirl. Adam Sandler, Julie Bowen, Ben Stiller, Christopher McDonald, Bad Bunny, Eminem, Hayley Joel Osment, Travis Kelce, a plethora of professional golfers, and a few of Sandler's relatives star. Pro wrestling fans should also recognize Becky Lynch and Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF).
***1/2 stars
Together- Body horror seems to be the new "in" subgenre these days. Last year, The Substance, took everyone's breath away (and probably made you gag a little). This supernatural journey through the macabre is directed by first timer Michael Shanks. Millie and Tim. A schoolteacher and aspiring musician. A 30-something couple in love but stuck in a stagnant time in the relationship. They move into the country to hopefully start anew. On a fateful day of hiking, they discover (fall into) a cave. In the cave is a well they both drink from. Shortly after their bodies begin behaving mysteriously. Like two powerful magnets that can't easily draw away from each other. What's happening here? Some ancient philosophers believed humans were once beings who were double and the ancient gods split the individual in half. I'll let your imaginations wander with that last statement. Strange doesn't begin to cover this one. It does have something to say about commitment and finding your true soul mate. But it is against a backdrop of very disturbing imagery. Imagery that could make you a bit squeamish. For the couple, options are limited to three in the end and, well, a couple aren't good at all. The third? I guess that's up to you to decide. It's bittersweet and more than a little disturbing. But you won't be bored. Alison Brie and Dave Franco star.
***3/4 stars
Death of a Unicorn- No. This is not a metaphor. This is a movie about Unicorns. They exist. At least in this film's world, they do. We start with the Kintners, Elliot, a lawyer, and his teenage daughter, Ridley. On the way to his vastly wealthy employer's estate, Elliot accidentally hits what turns out to be a small Unicorn. Not wanting to leave it on the road, they take the body to the estate where the young creature is not quite as dead as they believe. Elliot's employer, Odell Leopold, and his family see business opportunities in such a creature especially after it's discovered the blood has healing properties. But I did say this was a small Unicorn, a foal. What happens when the parents come calling looking for their baby? This is a horror comedy, and it is amusing if not laugh-out-loud funny. The kills are extremely grisly. These Unicorns aren't playing. Everything about them is deadly, The horns, hoofs, teeth. They kill with them all. The film does try to add a bit of mythology which I think they needed to take a bit more time with. That part of the movie felt rushed to me. The Leopolds are truly people you want to see die in horrible ways in these types of movies. Dismissive condescending rich people to a fault. Is this a great movie? No. Entertaining? Very much so. The cast is very good in their roles although Elliot could have been given a little more of a chance to exercise his comedic chops. He definitely has them. Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, Will Poulter, Tea Leoni, and Richard E. Grant star.
***1/2 stars
Final Destination: Bloodlines- The sixth installment of the horror franchise is its first since 2011. It has been called a "re-imagining" of the series although I'm not sure how much a series like this can be re-imagined as it's already a fairly "out there" concept where Death itself is the villain. But here we are. Let's dive in. We start as we always have in the franchise. In the late 1960s, Iris Campbell, a young woman with what appears to be a great life ahead of her, has a vision of she, her future husband, and dozens of others dying horribly due to the collapse of a high-rise restaurant where a freak chain of events happen to cause the carnage. Creating a scene to avert the disaster, Iris and the other victims are saved. Flash forward to present day where we find Iris's granddaughter, Stefani plagued by recurring nightmares of the fateful day her grandmother was meant to die. What do these visions mean? Who has the answers? Especially since the family has long written Iris off as the lunatic relative. One thing is certain. Death doesn't like to be cheated. Plot? What plot? Every FD movie is the same. One rando person is able to see Death's plan and foil it only for Death to take bloody vengeance against everyone who SHOULD have died initially. What we're all here to see are the preposterous and elaborate kills. And on this Bloodlines delivers very well. It's not just the kills themselves. It's the several "gotcha" moments that distract you from the suddenness of the actual kill. This movie will make you roll your eyes and flat burst out in laughter as characters onscreen are being eviscerated. But you know that's the charm of this franchise and why it's lasted for six chapters and likely many more. Horror icon, Tony Todd, makes his final appearance before his passing.
***1/4 stars
The Phoenician Scheme- The latest black comedy from director Wes Anderson features a who's who of Hollywood stars taking some of the most outlandish roles of their careers. If you're familiar with Anderson's past work, you know what you're in for. An amusingly quirky but very strange deadpan film. A 1950s industrialist arms dealer, "Zsa-Zsa" Korda, having escaped his latest assassination attempt, tries to reconcile with his estranged daughter and turn his business over to her. Korda has many enemies in the family and governments throughout the world that he and daughter, Liesl, will have to navigate when conspirators attempt to bankrupt him for his unethical business practices. It's a wild ride through assassination attempts, coercion, and general bad behavior as Korda and Liesl try to save the business and work through their own delicate family issues. So, again. Typical Wes Anderson. Insanely absurd people in an insanely absurd plot. There are many instances to make you snicker but rarely anything laugh-out-loud. People talk fast and don't offer much in the way of emotion. Again, typical of a Wes Anderson movie. He plays on the absurdity of circumstance probably as well as any director out there. It doesn't always work and, if it does, this type of comedy is only good for maybe 90 minutes at best. This, running a little short of two hours, does become tiresome. But when the comedy works, it works well enough to have one sitdown with the movie. Benicio Del Toro, Mia Threapleton (hilarious with her dagger), Michael Cera, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Hope Davis, Willem Dafoe, F. Murray Abraham, and Bill Murray star.
*** stars
Weapons- Director Zach Cregger made a big splash in 2022 with his sleeper horror hit, Barbarian. His latest mystery horror film is another unique entry into the macabre. On a random Wednesday in Maybrook, Pennsylvania, at 2:17 a.m., 17 children from teacher Justine Gandy's third-grade class leave their homes and inexplicably disappear. The police are baffled. The community's parents want answers with their fingers pointing directly at Justine. Why her class? A caring teacher, she has been accused of overstepping boundaries from time to time. It also doesn't help that she's a heavy drinker who tends to get in snags because of it. But is she the culprit? Justine appears just as baffled as anyone. As events unfold, her life along with one obsessed parent, a shaky police officer, the town druggie, and the last remaining child from her class will converge in the most shocking of ways. Weapons is a nonlinear story told from several points of view. It's a slow burn as the events unfold, but the narrative never loses you in the exposition. It all comes together to make perfect sense. It also makes you think because there are gaps the story gives you to fill in. This is a mystery thriller that really doesn't jump into the deep end of horror until the last 20 minutes or so. But when it does, it hits hard and often in a flurry. To be honest, some of it is a bit comical. Never fear. The comedy, while I believe Cregger is giving the audience a wink and nod, is strictly from an absurdity of circumstance. I found the ending rather abrupt, a bit of "Oh, they just ended it there." But I suppose it was appropriate. There was no where left to go. It leaves your mind in a strange place. I appreciate the thought and attention to detail that was put in here. With so many overlapping perspectives, the plot could have been a complete mess. Far from it. This is one of the most provocative films of the year. Without question, one of the best I've seen in 2025. Julia Garner, Josh Brolin, Alden Ehrenreich, Amy Madigan, Benedict Wong, and Justin Long star.
**** stars
Nobody 2- Or "The Further Adventures of Saul Goodman: Badass." A little Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul reference there for some of you. This sequel to 2021's surprise action comedy hit picks up not much longer after the first left off. Harried and weary government fixer/hitman, Hutch Mansell, takes an unscheduled break from his duties in an attempt to get closer to his family who he has grown distant from. Taking his wife, two children, and father (a retired, unhinged FBI agent) to an amusement park in Plummerville that he enjoyed as a child, he promises his wife to keep his tendencies at a low boil. Unfortunately, the law enforcement is completely corrupt with several chains of command, one seemingly worse than the last. When an altercation occurs with his kids and some town locals, it doesn't look like Hutch is going to be able to keep that promise. Nobody 2 is as refreshing as a glass of iced tea. It makes no pretenses as to what it is. It's an absurd actioner. Think John Wick meets Vacation. You feel for Hutch because he generally wants to do right by his family, but he keeps getting pulled into messes. Gone is the nuance from the first film as you were discovering who this character was. We know. An added feature I like is that his family knows (his wife always did) what he is and, while that life is a nuisance to them many times, they have more or less accepted it. Do they have a choice. Hutch's dad has a past, as well as his adopted brother who also makes a return. Even mom appears to have a couple of tricks up her sleeve. The fights and kills have been antied up from the first movie. I loved the song choices throughout the run. Each new song was so appropriate for their moments in the film. I don't know if I liked Nobody 2 as well as its predecessor, but this is a good time at the theater regardless. You know you're in for a wild ride when a Whack-A-Mole hammer is used as a weapon. Bob Odenkirk (kudos for him doing his own fight sequences), Connie Nielsen, Colin Hanks, Sharon Stone, RZA, and Christopher Lloyd star.
***3/4 stars
-
0 *= Dreck! Barf City!
1-2 *= No redeeming qualities whatsoever
2-3 *= Varying degrees of mediocre
3-4 *= Worth a look to almost excellent
4-5 *= Must see viewing
5 *= You have reached the top of the mountain. And it is good.
