John Hillcoat directed this Period Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Guy Pearce, Gary Oldman, Mia Wasikowska, Dane DeHaan. Rated R for strong bloody violence, language and some sexuality/nudity. Running time is one hour and fifty-five minutes.
The true story of the infamous Bondurant Brothers: bootlegging siblings
who made a run for the American Dream in Prohibition-era Virginia.
This is a frustrating film in that it had the potential to be something very good but turns out to be mostly a dud. Two of the brothers (Hardy and Clarke) are barely understandable and the third (LaBeouf) acts so stupidly you're rooting for someone to take him out. Guy Pearce is excellent but repulsive as the dandy enforcer, Gary Oldman isn't on screen nearly long enough, but the two women, Chastain and Wasikowska do their best to make the film somewhat watchable. Production values are very good and the photography and music give the film a real Prohibition-era look. This is very bloody and violent so if that bothers you, you have been warned.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen will help with the action scenes. Theatres/Times.
Friday, August 31, 2012
2016: Obama's America **
Dinesh D'Souza and John Sullivan directed this Conservative Documentary. Cast: Dinesh
D'Souza, Shelby Steele, Paul Vitz, Alice Dewey, Paul Kengor, Willy
Kauai, George Obama, Philip Ochieng, Joseph Ojiru, Daniel Pipes, David
Walker. Rated PG for thematic elements, brief language and smoking images. Running time is one hour and twenty-seven minutes.
Conservative Dinesh D'Souza attempts to expand upon the theories, investigations and accusations in his book "The Roots of Obama's Rage".
This is not the type of film I usually review since it's not meant to be entertainment. But, since so many in the country want to see it I thought I'd look and see what all the commotion was about. Very little, is the conclusion I came to. D'Souza tries to make the case that since Obama's father held anti-colonial beliefs, Obama must also and is doing everything he can to destroy the last colonial power in the world, the United States. Basically, he wants to strip the wealth of the country by raising taxes astronomically. I fail to see the logic in that premise, or how it would help the poor countries of the world, but I'm sure it will be red meat for those who feel Obama is out to destroy them. Production values are fine but the one sided view of its material will make it interesting only to those who already hold those views and a real snoozer to those who don't.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.
Conservative Dinesh D'Souza attempts to expand upon the theories, investigations and accusations in his book "The Roots of Obama's Rage".
This is not the type of film I usually review since it's not meant to be entertainment. But, since so many in the country want to see it I thought I'd look and see what all the commotion was about. Very little, is the conclusion I came to. D'Souza tries to make the case that since Obama's father held anti-colonial beliefs, Obama must also and is doing everything he can to destroy the last colonial power in the world, the United States. Basically, he wants to strip the wealth of the country by raising taxes astronomically. I fail to see the logic in that premise, or how it would help the poor countries of the world, but I'm sure it will be red meat for those who feel Obama is out to destroy them. Production values are fine but the one sided view of its material will make it interesting only to those who already hold those views and a real snoozer to those who don't.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Celeste And Jesse Forever
(60) is the best picture this week followed by Lawless
(58), The Possession (44) and The Oogieloves In The Big Balloon Adventure (31) bringing up the rear with the lowest grossing average ever seen. I saw two films this week and didn't think either was worth the time. Check
out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each
film.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Lawless (**) and 2016: Obama's America (**) are on the site now.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Lawless (**) and 2016: Obama's America (**) are on the site now.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Opening 8/29, 31
For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.
Wednesday 8/29
Lawless [R] 1 hr. 50 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Guy Pearce, Gary Oldman, Mia Wasikowska, Dane DeHaan. Plot: the true story of the infamous Bondurant Brothers: bootlegging siblings who made a run for the American Dream in Prohibition-era Virginia. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
The Oogieloves In The Big Balloon Adventure [G] 1 hr. 23 min. Family Watch Preview Cast: Toni Braxton, Cloris Leachman, Christopher Lloyd, Chazz Palminteri, Cary Elwes, Jaime Pressly. Plot: a simple story of a loving friendship, a surprise birthday party and a BIG adventure. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.
Friday 8/31
Celeste And Jesse Forever [R] 1 hr. 31 min. Romantic Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Rashida Jones, Andy Samberg, Chris Messina, Ari Graynor, Will McCormack, Emma Roberts, Elijah Wood, Eric Christian Olsen. Plot: two people who met in high school, married young and are growing apart decide to get divorced and stay best friends while pursuing other relationships. Showing at: Warren East.
The Possession [PG-13] 1 hr. 33 min. Horror Watch Preview Cast: Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Kyra Sedgwick, Madison Davenport, Natasha Calis. Plot: Clyde (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and Stephanie (Kyra Sedgwick) see little cause for alarm when their youngest daughter becomes oddly obsessed with an antique wooden box, only to discover the box was built to contain a dibbuk, a dislocated spirit that inhabits and ultimately devours its human host. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In. Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Leaving 8/28, 30
Derby Plaza - 8/28: Diary Of A Wimpy Kid; 8/30: Bourne Legacy
Movie Machine - 8/30: Ice Age: Continental Drift, Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8/30: People Like Us, Savages, That's My Boy
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 8/30: Ice Age: Continental Drift, Sparkle
Warren Old Town - 8/28: Dark Knight Rises; 8/30: Sparkle
Warren West 21st - 8/30: The Amazing Spider-Man, Sparkle
Movie Machine - 8/30: Ice Age: Continental Drift, Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8/30: People Like Us, Savages, That's My Boy
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 8/30: Ice Age: Continental Drift, Sparkle
Warren Old Town - 8/28: Dark Knight Rises; 8/30: Sparkle
Warren West 21st - 8/30: The Amazing Spider-Man, Sparkle
Friday, August 24, 2012
Premium Rush ***
David Koepp directed this Action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Michael Shannon, Dania Ramirez, Jamie Chung. Rated PG-13 for some violence, intense action sequences and language. Running time is one hour and thirty-one minutes.
An aggressive bicycle messenger (Gordon-Levitt) gets more than he is used to when his last envelope of the day – a routine “premium rush” run – turns into a life or death chase through the streets of Manhattan as he's pursued by a desperate New York police officer (Shannon).
Fans of action escapism will find ninety minutes of it with this picture. There's enough of a plot to enhance the action but it's the scenes of bicycle racing through New York traffic that's the real star. Gordon-Levitt is believable as the daredevil messenger and the rest of the cast supports him well, especially Shannon, who watchers of Boardwalk Empire will recognize. This isn't a film you'll be rooting for at Oscar time, but it will entertain you while you're watching.
There is one inconsequential scene during the final credits. A large screen would be nice but isn't necessary. Theatres/Times.
An aggressive bicycle messenger (Gordon-Levitt) gets more than he is used to when his last envelope of the day – a routine “premium rush” run – turns into a life or death chase through the streets of Manhattan as he's pursued by a desperate New York police officer (Shannon).
Fans of action escapism will find ninety minutes of it with this picture. There's enough of a plot to enhance the action but it's the scenes of bicycle racing through New York traffic that's the real star. Gordon-Levitt is believable as the daredevil messenger and the rest of the cast supports him well, especially Shannon, who watchers of Boardwalk Empire will recognize. This isn't a film you'll be rooting for at Oscar time, but it will entertain you while you're watching.
There is one inconsequential scene during the final credits. A large screen would be nice but isn't necessary. Theatres/Times.
Hit And Run **½
David Palmer, Dax Shepard directed this Action Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast:
Dax Shepard, Kristen Bell, Bradley Cooper, Tom Arnold, Beau Bridges,
Kristin Chenoweth, David Koechner, Michael Rosenbaum, Joy Bryant, Ryan
Hansen. Rated R for pervasive language including sexual references, graphic nudity, some violence and drug content. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.
A nice guy (Dax Shepard) with a questionable past risks everything when he leaves the witness protection program to deliver his fiancé (Kristen Bell) to Los Angeles to seize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as a college department head.
Shephard and Bell are a couple in real life and here they collaborate on a film he wrote, co-directed and stars in and she co-produced and stars in. They've put together a very good cast, some funny scenes and a few fair action sequences. The film gets carried away on some "couples" dialogue that could have been reduced but the overall length is about right so that can be overlooked. It's nice to see Tom Arnold in a film again and Cooper and Chenoweth are just fine. This is clearly aimed at a younger adult crowd which most will find entertaining if not memorable.
There are scenes running after the end credits begin. Screen size is relatively unimportant. Theatres/Times.
A nice guy (Dax Shepard) with a questionable past risks everything when he leaves the witness protection program to deliver his fiancé (Kristen Bell) to Los Angeles to seize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as a college department head.
Shephard and Bell are a couple in real life and here they collaborate on a film he wrote, co-directed and stars in and she co-produced and stars in. They've put together a very good cast, some funny scenes and a few fair action sequences. The film gets carried away on some "couples" dialogue that could have been reduced but the overall length is about right so that can be overlooked. It's nice to see Tom Arnold in a film again and Cooper and Chenoweth are just fine. This is clearly aimed at a younger adult crowd which most will find entertaining if not memorable.
There are scenes running after the end credits begin. Screen size is relatively unimportant. Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Ruby Sparks
(66) is the best picture this week followed by Premium Rush
(65), and Hit And Run (50). Neither The Apparition nor 2016: Obama' s America were reviewed by enough national critics to get a score.. I've seen two of these and was entertained by both. Check
out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each
film.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Hit And Run (**½) and Premium Rush (***) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Hit And Run (**½) and Premium Rush (***) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday.
Monday, August 20, 2012
Opening 8/22, 24
For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.
Wednesday 8/22
Hit And Run [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Action Watch Preview Cast: Dax Shepard, Kristen Bell, Bradley Cooper, Tom Arnold, Beau Bridges, Kristin Chenoweth, David Koechner, Michael Rosenbaum, Joy Bryant, Ryan Hansen. Plot: a nice guy (Dax Shepard) with a questionable past risks everything when he leaves the witness protection program to deliver his fiancé (Kristen Bell) to Los Angeles to seize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Friday 8/24
2016: Obama's America [NR] 1 hr. 30 min. Conservative Documentary Cast: Dinesh D'Souza, Shelby Steele, Paul Vitz, Alice Dewey, Paul Kengor, Willy Kauai, George Obama, Philip Ochieng, Joseph Ojiru, Daniel Pipes, David Walker. Plot: Conservative Dinesh D'Souza attempts to expand upon the theories, investigations and accusations in his book "The Roots of Obama's Rage". Showing at: Warren East.
The Apparition [PG-13] 1 hr. 22 min. Supernatural Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Ashley Greene, Sebastian Stan, Tom Felton, Julianna Guill, Luke Pasqualino, Suzanne Ford. Plot: a young couple (Ashley Greene, Sebastian Stan) discover they are being haunted by a presence that was accidentally conjured during a university parapsychology experiment. Showing at: Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren West.
Premium Rush [PG-13] 1 hr. 31 min.Action Watch Preview Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Michael Shannon, Dania Ramirez, Jamie Chung. Plot: an aggressive bicycle messenger (Gordon-Levitt) gets more than he is used to when his last envelope of the day – a routine “premium rush” run – turns into a life or death chase through the streets of Manhattan. Showing at: Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren West.
Ruby Sparks [R] 1 hr. 44 min. Romantic Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Paul Dano, Zoe Kazan, Annette Bening, Antonio Banderas, Steve Coogan, Elliott Gould, Chris Messina, Deborah Ann Woll. Plot: a young novelist (Paul Dano) creates a character named Ruby who inspires him. When he finds Ruby (Zoe Kazan), in the flesh, sitting on his couch about a week later, he is completely flabbergasted that his words have turned into a living, breathing person. Showing at: Warren East.
Leaving 8/21, 23
Derby Plaza - 8/21:Ice Age; 8/23:nothing
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8:23: The Lorax, Battleship, Abe Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
Starlite Drive-In -nothing
Warren East 13th - 8/21: Step Up Revolution, Ted; 8/23: Nitro Circus, The Amazing Spder-Man
Warren Old Town - 8/21:The Watch, Ted
Warren West 21st - 8/21: Nitro Circus, Ted
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8:23: The Lorax, Battleship, Abe Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
Starlite Drive-In -nothing
Warren East 13th - 8/21: Step Up Revolution, Ted; 8/23: Nitro Circus, The Amazing Spder-Man
Warren Old Town - 8/21:The Watch, Ted
Warren West 21st - 8/21: Nitro Circus, Ted
Friday, August 17, 2012
The Expendables 2 **
Simon West directed this Action film. Watch Preview. Cast:
Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck
Norris, Randy Couture, Terry Crews, Liam Hemsworth, Jean-Claude Van
Damme, Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Rated R for strong bloody violence throughout. Running time is one hour and forty-two minutes.
When (Bruce Willis) enlists the Expendables to take on a seemingly simple job, the task looks like an easy paycheck for (Sylvester Stallone) and his band of old-school mercenaries. But when things go wrong and one of their own is viciously killed, the Expendables are compelled to seek revenge in hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them.
If you want to see a bunch of action stars from yesteryear and you don't want to be bothered with a plot, here's your picture. Schwarzenegger and Norris are barely in this but the rest of the cast hams it up with the appropriate amount of mayhem and explosive violence. I'm sure there is a crowd for this, basically male, and this will be well attended. But, I can guarantee you'll have trouble remembering anything you saw ten minutes after you leave the theatre.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. A large screen with good sound will add to the impact. Theatres/Times.
When (Bruce Willis) enlists the Expendables to take on a seemingly simple job, the task looks like an easy paycheck for (Sylvester Stallone) and his band of old-school mercenaries. But when things go wrong and one of their own is viciously killed, the Expendables are compelled to seek revenge in hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them.
If you want to see a bunch of action stars from yesteryear and you don't want to be bothered with a plot, here's your picture. Schwarzenegger and Norris are barely in this but the rest of the cast hams it up with the appropriate amount of mayhem and explosive violence. I'm sure there is a crowd for this, basically male, and this will be well attended. But, I can guarantee you'll have trouble remembering anything you saw ten minutes after you leave the theatre.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. A large screen with good sound will add to the impact. Theatres/Times.
The Odd Life Of Timothy Green **
Peter Hedges directed this Fantasy/Drama. Watch Preview. Cast:
Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton, CJ Adams, Ron Livingston, Dianne Wiest,
Odeya Rush, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, M. Emmet Walsh, Lois
Smith, Common. Rated PG for mild thematic elements and brief language. Running time is one hour and forty-four minutes.
A happily married couple (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton) can't wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy (CJ Adams) shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, they learn that sometimes the unexpected can bring some of life's greatest gifts.
The cast is excellent and the production values are fine but unless you're taking young children to see this you won't be very entertained. This looks like something you'd see on the Hallmark Channel. There's nothing wrong with that but most won't be very happy paying theatre prices for it. It appears to me this is only for young parents and their children and even then the kids are going to like it better than the parents.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size will have no impact. Theatres/Times.
A happily married couple (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton) can't wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy (CJ Adams) shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, they learn that sometimes the unexpected can bring some of life's greatest gifts.
The cast is excellent and the production values are fine but unless you're taking young children to see this you won't be very entertained. This looks like something you'd see on the Hallmark Channel. There's nothing wrong with that but most won't be very happy paying theatre prices for it. It appears to me this is only for young parents and their children and even then the kids are going to like it better than the parents.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size will have no impact. Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates ParaNorman
(73) is the best picture this week followed by Ruby Sparks
(66), Sparkle (55), The Expendables 2 (51) and Odd Life Of Timothy Green (48). I've seen two of these and wasn't overly impressed with either. Check
out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each
film.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of The Expendables 2 (**) and Odd Life Of Timothy Green (**) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of The Expendables 2 (**) and Odd Life Of Timothy Green (**) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Opening 8/15, 17
For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.
Wednesday 8/15
The Odd Life Of Timothy Green [PG] 1 hr. 44 min. Fantasy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton, CJ Adams, Ron Livingston, Dianne Wiest, Odeya Rush, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, M. Emmet Walsh, Lois Smith, Common. Plot: a happily married couple (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton) can't wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy (CJ Adams) shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, they learn that sometimes the unexpected can bring some of life's greatest gifts. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.
Friday 8/17
The Expendables 2[R] 1 hr. 42 min. Action Watch Preview Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck Norris, Randy Couture, Terry Crews, Liam Hemsworth, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Plot: when (Bruce Willis) enlists the Expendables to take on a seemingly simple job, the task looks like an easy paycheck for (Sylvester Stallone) and his band of old-school mercenaries. But when things go wrong and one of their own is viciously killed, the Expendables are compelled to seek revenge in hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
ParaNorman 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 32 min.Animated Watch Preview Voices of: Casey Affleck, Tempestt Bledsoe, Alex Borstein, Jodelle Ferland, John Goodman, Bernard Hill, Anna Kendrick, Leslie Mann, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Elaine Stritch. Plot: a small town comes under siege by zombies. Who can it call? Only misunderstood local boy Norman, who is able to speak with the dead. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14 ?, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren West.
Ruby Sparks [R] 1 hr. 44 min. Romantic Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Paul Dano, Zoe Kazan, Annette Bening, Antonio Banderas, Steve Coogan, Elliott Gould, Chris Messina, Deborah Ann Woll. Plot: a young novelist (Paul Dano) creates a character named Ruby who inspires him. When he finds Ruby (Zoe Kazan), in the flesh, sitting on his couch about a week later, he is completely flabbergasted that his words have turned into a living, breathing person. Showing at: Warren East.
Sparkle [PG-13] 2 hrs. Music/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Jordin Sparks, Whitney Houston, Derek Luke, Mike Epps, Carmen Ejogo, Tika Sumpter, Omari Hardwick, Cee-Lo Green. Plot: the youngest of three sisters (Jordin Sparks) and a music prodigy struggles to becomes a star while overcoming issues that are tearing her family apart. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Leaving 8/14, 16
Derby Plaza - 8/16: Total Recall, Dark Knight Rises, The Watch
Movie Machine - 8/14: The Dark Knight Rises; 8/16: Total Recall
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8/16: Katy Perry, Seeking Friend For The End, The Lorax, Battleship
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 8/14: Moonrise Kingdom, Safety Not Guaranteed; 8/16: Brave, The Avengers, The Watch
Warren Old Town - 8/16:Total Recall
Warren West 21st - 8/14: Brave, The Avengers; 8/16: The Watch, Step Up Revolution
Movie Machine - 8/14: The Dark Knight Rises; 8/16: Total Recall
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8/16: Katy Perry, Seeking Friend For The End, The Lorax, Battleship
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 8/14: Moonrise Kingdom, Safety Not Guaranteed; 8/16: Brave, The Avengers, The Watch
Warren Old Town - 8/16:Total Recall
Warren West 21st - 8/14: Brave, The Avengers; 8/16: The Watch, Step Up Revolution
Friday, August 10, 2012
Bourne Legacy ***
Tony Gilroy directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Albert Finney, Joan Allen, Scott Glenn, Stacy Keach, Oscar Isaac. Rated PG-13 for violence and action sequences. Running time is two hours and fifteen minutes.
A new hero (Jeremy Renner), created by the same agency who created Jason Bourne, faces life-or-death stakes when the agency decides to close the program after they're unable to catch Jason. He saves the life of one of the agency's doctors (Rachel Weisz) and together they try to avoid being killed by the agency.
I've seen the previous Bourne films and liked them all. I liked this one also even though Bourne is no longer present. The film is a little longer than it needs to be but there's enough action to take the edge off that problem. Production values are very good and the cast is just fine. The plot doesn't quite make it clear why the program needs to be shut down so drastically but upon reflection it seems to be because Jason Bourne has been uncapturable. The ending clearly suggests there's more to come so you have that to look forward to if you like this one.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large auditorium with good sound will add to your enjoyment. Theatres/Times.
A new hero (Jeremy Renner), created by the same agency who created Jason Bourne, faces life-or-death stakes when the agency decides to close the program after they're unable to catch Jason. He saves the life of one of the agency's doctors (Rachel Weisz) and together they try to avoid being killed by the agency.
I've seen the previous Bourne films and liked them all. I liked this one also even though Bourne is no longer present. The film is a little longer than it needs to be but there's enough action to take the edge off that problem. Production values are very good and the cast is just fine. The plot doesn't quite make it clear why the program needs to be shut down so drastically but upon reflection it seems to be because Jason Bourne has been uncapturable. The ending clearly suggests there's more to come so you have that to look forward to if you like this one.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large auditorium with good sound will add to your enjoyment. Theatres/Times.
The Campaign **½
Jay Roach directed this Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast:
Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Sudeikis, Katherine LaNasa,
Dylan McDermott, John Lithgow, Dan Aykroyd, Brian Cox, P.J. Byrne. Rated R for crude sexual content, language and brief nudity. Running time is one hour and twenty-five minutes.
When a long-term congressman (Will Ferrell) commits a major public gaffe before an upcoming election, a pair of ultra-wealthy CEOs (John Lithgow, Dan Aykroyd) plot to put up a rival candidate (Zach Galifianakis) and gain influence over their North Carolina district so they can enhance their business profits.
Consider this a political comedy aimed directly at the heart of the Tea Party. The Motch brothers in the film are clearly meant to be the Koch brothers and it's already been reported they aren't happy about their portrayal. That's perfectly understandable since they are portrayed as greedy individuals only interested in the bottom line and personal power. Supporters of their viewpoint may well wish to pass on this one. While I personally laughed on several occasions, the comedy is quite crude, as you'd expect from Ferrell. Younger audiences will generally enjoy this more than older ones.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A larger auditorium with a large audience will make this funnier. Theatres/Times.
When a long-term congressman (Will Ferrell) commits a major public gaffe before an upcoming election, a pair of ultra-wealthy CEOs (John Lithgow, Dan Aykroyd) plot to put up a rival candidate (Zach Galifianakis) and gain influence over their North Carolina district so they can enhance their business profits.
Consider this a political comedy aimed directly at the heart of the Tea Party. The Motch brothers in the film are clearly meant to be the Koch brothers and it's already been reported they aren't happy about their portrayal. That's perfectly understandable since they are portrayed as greedy individuals only interested in the bottom line and personal power. Supporters of their viewpoint may well wish to pass on this one. While I personally laughed on several occasions, the comedy is quite crude, as you'd expect from Ferrell. Younger audiences will generally enjoy this more than older ones.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A larger auditorium with a large audience will make this funnier. Theatres/Times.
Hope Springs **
David Frankel directed this Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones, Steve Carell. Rated PG-13 for mature thematic content involving sexuality. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.
A devoted couple's (Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones) decades of marriage have left the wife wanting to spice things up and reconnect with her husband, so they decide to visit a couple's therapist (Steve Carell).
This film has a terrific cast and good production vales, but for a movie that's supposed to be a comedy, it has no laughs. I don't know why they classed this as a comedy since it's a drama, plain and simple. It's also aimed at a mature woman's audience and most of the males who find themselves watching aren't going to be the least bit entertained. None of the three leads play the type of character you expect. Streep is mostly mousey, Jones is mostly belligerent and unhappy, and Carrell is a low-key sex therapist without a hint of humor. Older women may well find much that appeals to them but they should do the men in their lives a favor and see it with other women.
There are scenes that occur as the credits begin. Auditorium size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.
A devoted couple's (Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones) decades of marriage have left the wife wanting to spice things up and reconnect with her husband, so they decide to visit a couple's therapist (Steve Carell).
This film has a terrific cast and good production vales, but for a movie that's supposed to be a comedy, it has no laughs. I don't know why they classed this as a comedy since it's a drama, plain and simple. It's also aimed at a mature woman's audience and most of the males who find themselves watching aren't going to be the least bit entertained. None of the three leads play the type of character you expect. Streep is mostly mousey, Jones is mostly belligerent and unhappy, and Carrell is a low-key sex therapist without a hint of humor. Older women may well find much that appeals to them but they should do the men in their lives a favor and see it with other women.
There are scenes that occur as the credits begin. Auditorium size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Hope Springs
(67) is the best picture this week followed by The Bourne Legacy
(60), The Campaign (54) and Nitro Circus: The Movie (45). I've seen three of these and found one to be aimed strictly at women, one funny and one exciting. Check
out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each
film.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Hope Springs (**), The Campaign (**½) and The Bourne Legacy (***) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday. Here are national reviews of this week's films:
Roger Ebert review of The Bourne Legacy.
USA TODAY review of The Campaign.
PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER review of Hope Springs.
LOS ANGELES TIMES review of Nitro Circus: The Movie.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Hope Springs (**), The Campaign (**½) and The Bourne Legacy (***) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday. Here are national reviews of this week's films:
Roger Ebert review of The Bourne Legacy.
USA TODAY review of The Campaign.
PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER review of Hope Springs.
LOS ANGELES TIMES review of Nitro Circus: The Movie.
Monday, August 06, 2012
Opening 8/8, 8/10
For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.
Wednesday 8/8
Hope Springs [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones, Steve Carell. Plot: a devoted couple's (Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones) decades of marriage have left the wife wanting to spice things up and reconnect with her husband, so they decide to visit a couple's therapist (Steve Carell). Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.
Nitro Circus The Movie 3D [PG-13] 1 hr. 28 min. Sports Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Travis Pastrana, Tommy Passemante, Jolene Van Vugt. Plot: Travis Pastrana and his tight-knit, highly-skilled, adrenaline-addicted friends bring their impossible, ridiculous, insane and hysterical adventures to the big screen for the first time. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.
Friday 8/10
Bourne Legacy [PG-13] 2 hr. 15 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Albert Finney, Joan Allen, Scott Glenn, Stacy Keach, Oscar Isaac. Plot: an original story that introduces us to a new hero (Jeremy Renner), created by the same agency who created Jason Bourne and whose life-or-death stakes have been triggered by the events that happened to Jason. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
The Campaign [R] 1 hr. 25 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Sudeikis, Katherine LaNasa, Dylan McDermott, John Lithgow, Dan Aykroyd, Brian Cox, P.J. Byrne. Plot: when a long-term congressman (Will Ferrell) commits a major public gaffe before an upcoming election, a pair of ultra-wealthy CEOs plot to put up a rival candidate (Zach Galifianakis) and gain influence over their North Carolina district. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Leaving 8/7, 8/9
Derby Plaza - 8-9: Ted, Brave
Movie Machine - 8/9: The Watch
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8/9: Dark Shadows, Hunger Games, Pirates! Band Of Misfits, Rock Of Ages
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 8/9: Step Up Revolution 3D, The Intouchables, Magic Mike, Savages, Madea's Witness Protection, Ice Age 3D
Warren Old Town - 8/9: Magic Mike
Warren West 21st - 8/7: Madagascar 3; 8/9: Savages, Magic Mike, Madea's Witness Protection, Step Up Revolution 3D, Ice Age 3D
Movie Machine - 8/9: The Watch
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 8/9: Dark Shadows, Hunger Games, Pirates! Band Of Misfits, Rock Of Ages
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 8/9: Step Up Revolution 3D, The Intouchables, Magic Mike, Savages, Madea's Witness Protection, Ice Age 3D
Warren Old Town - 8/9: Magic Mike
Warren West 21st - 8/7: Madagascar 3; 8/9: Savages, Magic Mike, Madea's Witness Protection, Step Up Revolution 3D, Ice Age 3D
Friday, August 03, 2012
Total Recall ***
Len Wiseman directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel, Bryan Cranston, John Cho, Bill Nighy. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, some sexual content, brief nudity, and language. Running time is one hour and fifty-eight minutes.
A factory worker (Farrell) decides to visit Rekall, the company that can turn your dreams into real memories. When the procedure goes horribly wrong, he becomes a hunted man, his wife (Beckinsale) tries to kill him and a girl (Biel) from his dreams tries to help him.
I remember seeing the original film although I don't remember all of the details. I do remember enough to know this plot is only vaguely similar, so much of it will be a new experience if you saw the first version. The action is pretty much non-stop once it starts although the fast cut directing technique is used enough it's at times hard to follow. Sci-Fi fans will have to ignore some implausibilities but once you do, the plot moves right along. There are some terrific cgi effects throughout, which for me were the film's highlight and very reminiscent of Blade Runner. The cast and production values are fine, which they should be for an estimated $125 million production cost. This is a film action fans will find fun to watch but just as easy to forget once they've left the theatre.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen will make the cgi effects more impressive. Theatres/Times.
A factory worker (Farrell) decides to visit Rekall, the company that can turn your dreams into real memories. When the procedure goes horribly wrong, he becomes a hunted man, his wife (Beckinsale) tries to kill him and a girl (Biel) from his dreams tries to help him.
I remember seeing the original film although I don't remember all of the details. I do remember enough to know this plot is only vaguely similar, so much of it will be a new experience if you saw the first version. The action is pretty much non-stop once it starts although the fast cut directing technique is used enough it's at times hard to follow. Sci-Fi fans will have to ignore some implausibilities but once you do, the plot moves right along. There are some terrific cgi effects throughout, which for me were the film's highlight and very reminiscent of Blade Runner. The cast and production values are fine, which they should be for an estimated $125 million production cost. This is a film action fans will find fun to watch but just as easy to forget once they've left the theatre.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen will make the cgi effects more impressive. Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Beasts of the Southern Wild
(86) is the best picture this week followed by Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
(60) and Total Recall (45). I've seen one of these and found it exciting if implausible. Check
out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each
film.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Total Recall (***) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday. Here are national reviews of this week's films:
USA TODAY review of Beasts of the Southern Wild.
ARIZONA REPUBLIC review of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days.
James Berardinelli review of Total Recall.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Total Recall (***) will be on the site by 4:30 p.m, Friday. Here are national reviews of this week's films:
USA TODAY review of Beasts of the Southern Wild.
ARIZONA REPUBLIC review of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days.
James Berardinelli review of Total Recall.
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About Me
- Wichita, KS, United States
- I've spent most of my adult life in film exhibition management, from which I've retired. As a result of my work I've seen thousands of movies over the years and maintain a strong interest in movies and theatres.
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