Latest CinemaBLEND Movie News

Monday, December 05, 2011

Opening 12/9/2011

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.

New Year's Eve [PG-13] 1 hr. 58 min. Romantic Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, Jon Bon Jovi, Abigail Breslin, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Robert De Niro, Josh Duhamel, Zac Efron, Hector Elizondo, Katherine Heigl, Ashton Kutcher, Seth Meyers, Lea Michele, Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Pfeiffer, Til Schweiger, Hilary Swank, Sofia Vergara. Plot: intertwining stories told amidst the pulse and promise of New York City on the most dazzling night of the year. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Descendents [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Beau Bridges, Robert Forster, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard, Nick Krause, Amara Miller, Mary Birdsong, Rob Huebel, Patricia Hastie. Plot: an indifferent husband and father of two girls is forced to re-examine his past and embrace his future when his wife suffers a boating accident off Waikiki. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Take Shelter [R] 2 hr. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Michael Shannon, Jessica Chastain, Shea Whigham, Katy Mixon, Kathy Baker. Plot: a man begins to have terrifying dreams he keeps to himself, channeling his anxiety into obsessively building a storm shelter in his backyard. His seemingly inexplicable behavior concerns and confounds those closest to him. Showing at:  Warren East.

The Sitter [R] 1 hr. 22 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Jonah Hill, Sam Rockwell, Max Records, Kevin Hernandez, Landry Bender, J.B. Smoove, Method Man. Plot: a college student, suspended for the semester and living back at home with his single mom, has a night to remember when he gets talked into baby-sitting the eccentric kids next door. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 12/8/2011

Derby Plaza - Puss In Boots, Happy Feet Two, Immortals
Movie Machine - Puss In Boots
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Crazy Stupid Love, Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Skin I Live In, Like Crazy, Happy Feet Two
Warren Old Town - Anonymous, Arthur Christmas
Warren West 21st - Ides Of March, Moneyball

Friday, December 02, 2011

Worthwhile (or not), 12/2/2011

MetaCritic indicates THE SKIN I LIVE IN (70) is the best of the new films this week, followed by ANONYMOUS (50). I didn't watch either. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

While I didn't watch anything this week, I did select reviews for the two new films:

Washington Post review of ANONYMOUS.
Roger Ebert review of THE SKIN I LIVE IN.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Opening 12/2/2011

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.

Anonymous [PG-13] 2 hrs. 26 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave, Joely Richardson, David Thewlis, Xavier Samuel, Sebastian Armesto, Rafe Spall, Edward Hogg, Jamie Campbell Bower, Derek Jacobi. Plot: set in the political snake-pit of Elizabethan England, "Anonymous" speculates on an issue that has for centuries intrigued academics and brilliant minds, namely: who was the author of the plays credited to William Shakespeare? Showing at: Warren Old Town.

The Skin I Live In [R] 1 hr. 57 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Antonio Banderas, Elena Anaya, Marisa Paredes, Jan Cornet, Roberto Álamo, Blanca Suárez. Plot: since his wife was burned in a car crash, Dr. Robert Ledgard (Antonia Banderas), an eminent plastic surgeon, has been interested in creating a new skin with which he could have saved her. After twelve years, he manages to cultivate a skin that is a real shield against every assault. Showing at:  Warren East.

Leaving 12/1/2011

Derby Plaza - nothing
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Johnny English Reborn, Seven Days In Utopia
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - Martha Marcy May Marlene
Warren Old Town - J. Edgar, Jack And  Jill
Warren West 21st - nothing

Friday, November 25, 2011

Hugo ***½

Martin Scorsese directed this Family Fantasy. Watch Preview. Cast: Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Ben Kingsley, Jude Law, Ray Winstone, Christopher Lee, Helen McCrory, Richard Griffiths, Frances de la Tour, Emily Mortimer, Michael Stuhlbarg. Rated PG for mild thematic material, some action/peril and smoking. Running time is two hours and seven minutes.

The story of an orphan boy (Butterfield) living a secret life in the walls of a Paris train station. With the help of an eccentric girl (Moretz), he searches for the answer to a mystery linking the father (Law) he recently lost, the ill-tempered toy shop owner (Kingsley) living below him and a heart shaped lock, seemingly without a key. All the while he must avoid the clutches of the station Inspector (Cohen).

I can't remember the last time I was so impressed by the sheer quality of a film. The story is interesting, the production values are superb and the acting is top notch. It does have in my opinion one flaw, and it's the reason I didn't give it four stars. For most audiences the pacing is too slow resulting in a film at least twenty minutes too long. For that reason I have a hard time thinking children won't be bored, which is too bad considering the subject matter. Adults, however, who love a well made film shouldn't miss this one.

I watched the 2D version but this was made as a 3D film and considering its quality I'm betting the 3D version will look great. Auditorium size will  make no  difference in the film's enjoyability. There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 11/25/2011

MetaCritic indicates HUGO (80) is the best of the new films this week, followed by THE MUPPETS (76), LIKE CRAZY (70), and in last place, ARTHUR CHRISTMAS (68). I've seen one of these and thought it was great. 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 HUGO (***½) will be posted later today. In the meantime, here's an assortment of national reviews:

Roger Moore review of ARTHUR CHRISTMAS.
Rolling Stone review of HUGO.
Roger Ebert review of LIKE CRAZY.
James Berardinelli review of THE MUPPETS.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Opening 11/23/2011

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.

Arthur Christmas 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 39 min. Animated Comedy Watch Preview Voices: James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Jim Broadbent, Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Ashley Jensen. Plot: at last reveals the incredible, never-before seen answer to every child's question: 'So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night? Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Hugo 2D/3D [PG] 2 hrs. 02 min. Family Fantasy Watch Preview Cast: Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Ben Kingsley, Jude Law, Ray Winstone, Christopher Lee, Helen McCrory, Richard Griffiths, Frances de la Tour, Emily Mortimer, Michael Stuhlbarg. Plot: the story of an orphan boy living a secret life in the walls of a Paris train station. With the help of an eccentric girl, he searches for the answer to a mystery linking the father he recently lost, the ill-tempered toy shop owner living below him and a heart shaped lock, seemingly without a key. Showing at:  Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Like Crazy [PG-13] 1 hr. 30 min. Romantic Drama Watch Preview Cast: Anton Yelchin, Felicity Jones, Jennifer Lawrence, Charlie Bewley, Alex Kingston, Oliver Muirhead, Chris Messina, Finola Hughes, Ben York Jones, Jamie Thomas King. Plot: a British college student (Felicity Jones) falls for her American classmate (Anton Yelchin) and they embark on a passionate and life-changing journey only to be separated when she violates the terms of her visa. Showing at:  Warren East.

The Muppets [PG] 1 hr. 50 min. Family Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper, Rashida Jones, Alan Arkin, Jack Black, Billy Crystal, Zach Galifianakis, Kathy Griffin, Ricky Gervais, Emily Blunt, Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, Walter. Plot: on vacation in Los Angeles, Walter, the world's biggest Muppet fan, and his friends Gary (Jason Segel) and Mary (Amy Adams) from Smalltown, USA, discover the nefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) to raze the Muppet Theater and drill for the oil recently discovered beneath the Muppets' former stomping grounds. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 11/22/2011

Derby Plaza - Tower Heist
Movie Machine - Immortals
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - The Thing, Cars 2, Dream House
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - Real Steel, Moneyball, Footloose, Paranormal Activity 3, Courageous, Harold & Kumar 3D
Warren Old Town - Puss In Boots, Harold & Kumar 3D
Warren West 21st - Courageous, Real Steel, Harold & Kumar 3D, Footloose, Paranormal Activity 3

Friday, November 18, 2011

Happy Feet Two **

George Miller directed this Animated feature. Watch Preview. Voices: Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Hank Azaria, Alecia Moore (P!nk), Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Sofia Vergara, Common, Hugo Weaving, Magda Szubanski, Anthony LaPaglia, Richard Carter, Benjamin "Lil P-Nut" Flores, Jr. Rated PG for some rude humor and mild peril. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.

Sequel to the Academy Award winning animated hit returns to Antarctica in 3D.

Frankly, I don't see much purpose for this sequel. It's not as entertaining as the first although small children will probably like it well enough. I watched the 3D version but I didn't find  it compelling enough to recommend you pay extra for  it. The only reason I'm giving it two stars is because it had one of my favorite Puccini arias in one of the scenes, but I'm just guessing that won't thrill too many others.

Screen/auditorium size is not important to enjoyability. There are no additional scenes once the credits start and those are extremely difficult to read anyway. 3D Theatres/Times. 2D Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 **

Bill Condon directed this Romance/Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Peter Facinelli, Ashley Greene, Kellan Lutz, Jackson Rathbone, Elizabeth Reaser, Nikki Reed, Billy Burke. Rated PG-13 for disturbing images, violence, sexuality/partial nudity and some thematic elements. Running time is one hour and 57 minutes.

Bella's marriage results in a pregnancy that poses a threat to both the wolf pack and vampire coven.

This didn't do much for me but then I'm the wrong age and gender for its intended audience. I found it surprisingly emotionless although none of the leads are known for their acting ability. The whole "baby is killing her" schtick went by the wayside once you saw her. She looked like a normal, average sized infant to me. There was hardly any action from the wolf pack other than some growling and the vampire coven was nice to the point of boring. Teen age girls will care nothing about these comments but adults should be aware this is not worth waiting in line for.

A big screen will make little difference to your enjoyability. There is one additional scene that gives something of a preview for next year's sequel after the credits start.  Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 11/18/2011

MetaCritic indicates MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE (76) is the best of the new films this week, followed by HAPPY FEET TWO (50), and in last place, TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 1 (45). I've seen two of the three and thought they were OK but not great. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of HAPPY FEET  TWO and TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 1 will be posted at 4:30 pm today. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see below:

Chicago Tribune review of HAPPY FEET TWO.
Washington Post review of MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE.
Entertainment Weekly review of TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 1.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Opening, 11/18/11

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.

Happy Feet Two 2D, 3D, IMAX 3D [PG] 1 hr. 43 min. Animated Watch Preview Voices: Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Hank Azaria, Alecia Moore (P!nk), Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Sofia Vergara, Common, Hugo Weaving, Magda Szubanski, Anthony LaPaglia, Richard Carter, Benjamin "Lil P-Nut" Flores, Jr. Plot: sequel to the Academy Award winning animated hit returns to the magnificent landscape of Antarctica in 3D. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Martha Marcy May Marlene [R] 1 hr. 42 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Elizabeth Olsen, Christopher Abbott, Brady Corbet, Hugh Dancy, Maria Dizzia, Julia Garner, John Hawkes, Louisa Krause, Sarah Paulson. Plot: psychological thriller about a young woman (Elizabeth Olsen) rapidly unraveling during her attempt to reclaim a normal life after fleeing from a cult and its charismatic leader (John Hawkes). Showing at: Warren East.

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 [PG-13] 1 hr. 58 min. Romance/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Peter Facinelli, Ashley Greene, Kellan Lutz, Jackson Rathbone, Elizabeth Reaser, Nikki Reed, Billy Burke. Plot: Bella's unborn child poses a threat to both the wolf pack and vampire coven. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 11/17/11

Derby Plaza -
Movie Machine - Tower Heist, Paranormal Activity 3, Real Steel
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - I Don't Know How She Does It, Warrior, Captain America
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Ides  Of March, 50/50, The Way, Rum Diary, Margin Call
Warren Old Town - Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas
Warren West 21st - Moneyball, The Three Musketeers

Friday, November 11, 2011

Worthwhile (or not), 11/11/2011

MetaCritic indicates J. EDGAR (59) is the best of the new films this week, followed by IMMORTALS (43), and in last place, JACK AND JILL (24). I've been a little under the weather this week and haven't seen any of them. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

Sorry, no reviews from me this week. But I haven't forgotten you, see the reviews below:

Philadelphia Inquirer review of J. EDGAR.
New York Times review of JACK AND JILL.
USA Today review of  IMMORTALS.

Monday, November 07, 2011

Opening, 11/11/11

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.

Immortals 2D, 3D [R] 1 hr. 50 min.Fantasy adventure Watch Preview Cast: Henry Cavill, Stephen Dorff, Isabel Lucas, Freida Pinto, Luke Evans, Kellan Lutz, John Hurt, Mickey Rourke. Plot: as a power-mad king razes ancient Greece in search of a legendary weapon, a heroic young villager rises up against him. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

J.Edgar [R] 2 hrs. 17 min. Biographical drama Watch Preview Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Watts, Judi Dench, Armie Hammer, Josh Lucas, Ken Howard. Plot: ss the face of law enforcement in America for almost fifty years, J. Edgar Hoover (DiCaprio) was feared and admired, reviled and revered. But behind closed doors, he held secrets that would have destroyed his image, his career and his life. Showing at: Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Jack And Jill [PG] 1 hr. 31 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Adam Sandler, Katie Holmes, Al Pacino. Plot: a successful advertising executive (Adam Sandler) in Los Angeles with a beautiful wife and kids, dreads one event each year: the Thanksgiving visit of his identical twin sister Jill (also Adam Sandler). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 11/10/11

Derby Plaza -Courageous
Movie Machine - In Time, Footloose
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Killer Elite, Our Idiot Brother, Apollo 18
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Three Musketeers, Dolphin Tale
Warren Old Town - The Rum Diary, In Time, Paranormal Activity 3
Warren West 21st -Dolphin Tale, 50/50, Paranormal Activity 3, The Rum Diary

Friday, November 04, 2011

Tower Heist **

Brett Ratner directed this Action comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Matthew Broderick, Téa Leoni, Gabourey Sidibe, Casey Affleck, Stephen Henderson, Judd Hirsch, Michael Pena, Alan Alda. Rated PG-13 for language and sexual content. Running time is one hour and forty-four minutes.

After the workers (Stiller, Sidibe,  Affleck) at a luxury Central Park condominium discover the penthouse billionaire (Alda) has stolen their retirement, they plot the ultimate revenge: a heist to reclaim what he took from them.

This had the potential to be an enjoyable caper film but dropped the ball in so many places it turns out not to have either action or comedy. There's all sorts of potential, from the cast to an intriguing plot. But nothing works quite right and by the time you reach the ending you're more than ready to leave. There's much better fare coming for the holidays so I'd save my money for them.

 There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. I don't think either a large screen or a large crowd are going to be of much benefit for this one. Theatres/Times.

Margin Call ***

J.C. Chandor wrote and directed this Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Zachary Quinto, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, Mary McDonnell, Demi Moore, Stanley Tucci. Rated R for language. Running time is one hour and forty-seven minutes.

Set in the high-stakes world of the financial industry, the key players at an investment firm scramble to save their company during one perilous 24-hour period in the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis.

I don't know how much actual truth there is in this plot but it sure feels like it could be true, enough so you're going to be mad when it's over. The first class cast takes us through the realization that selling bundled toxic mortgages isn't going to work out as planned. But, it's what they do once they discover the problem that will make you wonder why none of them are in jail. This isn't entertainment in the usual sense but the cast and pacing keep you interested throughout and may provide some background on our country's current financial mess. Theatre/Times.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. Any size screen and auditorium will suffice since there won't be much in the way of audience reaction. Theatre/Time.

Worthwhile (or not), 11/4/2011

MetaCritic indicates MARGIN CALL (75) is the best of the new films this week, followed by TOWER HEIST (59), and in last place, A VERY HAROLD AND KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS (57). I've seen two of these and found one enjoyable and the other not so much. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of MARGIN CALL (***) and TOWER HEIST (**) will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below:

Miami Herald review of MARGIN CALL.
Philadelphia Inquirer review of TOWER HEIST.
USA Today review of A VERY HAROLD AND KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS.

Monday, October 31, 2011

Opening 11/4/11

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.

Margin Call [R] 1 hr. 46 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Zachary Quinto, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, Mary McDonnell, Demi Moore, Stanley Tucci. Plot: set in the high-stakes world of the financial industry, the key players at an investment firm scramble to save their company during one perilous 24-hour period in the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis. Showing at:  Warren East.

Tower Heist [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Action comedy Watch Preview Cast: Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Matthew Broderick, Téa Leoni, Gabourey Sidibe, Casey Affleck, Stephen Henderson, Judd Hirsch, Michael Pena, Alan Alda. Plot: after the workers at a luxury Central Park condominium discover the penthouse billionaire has stolen their retirement, they plot the ultimate revenge: a heist to reclaim what he took from them. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

A Very Harold And Kumar 3D Christmas [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: John Cho, Kal Penn, Paula Garcés, Danneel Harris, Tom Lennon, Danny Trejo, Elias Koteas, Eddie Kaye Thomas, David Krumholtz, Patton Oswalt, Neil Patrick Harris. Plot: after six years of growing apart, Harold Lee (John Cho) and Kumar Patel (Kal Penn) have replaced each other with new friends and are preparing for their respective Yuletide celebrations. but reluctantly embark on another ill-advised journey through New York City. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 11/3/11

Derby Plaza - Footloose, Real Steel, The Three Musketeers
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Shark Night, Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark, Straw Dogs
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Mighty Macs, The Thing, The Big Year, Johnny English Reborn
Warren Old Town - The Three Musketeers, Real Steel
Warren West 21st - The Mighty Macs, The Big Year, The Thing, The Ides Of March, Johnny English Reborn

Friday, October 28, 2011

In Time **½

Andrew Niccol directed this Sci-Fi Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried, Cillian Murphy, Vincent Kartheiser, Alex Pettyfer, Johnny Galecki. Rated PG-13 for violence, some sexualty and partial nudity, and strong language. Running time is one hour and forty-nine minutes.

In a future where time is literally money, the only way to stay alive is to earn, steal, or inherit more time. A man (Timberlake) lives life a minute at a time, until a windfall of time gives him access to the world of the wealthy, where he teams up with a beautiful young heiress (Seyfried) to destroy the corrupt system, while being relentlessly chased by a Time Keeper (Murphy).

Once you get past the silliness of the plot, this is a reasonably entertaining film. Timberlake is OK although not yet a top class actor. Seyfried is fine and Murphy is intently menacing. The story moves right along and there  are few slow spots. Though futuristic, there are no obvious cgi effects although the film does make it seem like all vehicles are battery powered. Since in this future, all currency is time, it's interesting to see how the dialogue about people having too little or too much time mirrors our current dialogues about wealth and poverty. This is not a memorable film but it will pass the time for sci-fi or Timberlake fans.

A larger screen will add to the film's impact. There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/28/11

MetaCritic indicates THE WAY (65) is the best of the new films this week, followed by PUSS IN BOOTS (63), IN TIME (61) and in last place, THE RUM DIARY (58). I've seen one of these and found it enjoyable. 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 IN TIME (**½) will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

Variety review of PUSS IN BOOTS.
USA Today review of THE RUM DIARY.
Chicago Tribune review of IN TIME.
Roger Moore review of THE WAY.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Opening 10/28/11

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.

In Time [PG-13] 1 hr.50 Min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried, Cillian Murphy, Vincent Kartheiser, Alex Pettyfer, Johnny Galecki. Plot: in a future where time is literally money, the only way to stay alive is to earn, steal, or inherit more time. A man (Timberlake) lives life a minute at a time, until a windfall of time gives him access to the world of the wealthy, where he teams up with a beautiful young heiress (Seyfried) to destroy the corrupt system. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Puss in Boots 2D, 3D, IMAX 3D [PG] Animated Watch Preview Voices: Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis, Billy Bob Thornton, Amy Sedaris. Plot: the true story of The Cat, The Myth, The Legend... The Boots. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Rum Diary [R] 2 hrs. 02 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Johnny Depp, Aaron Eckhart, Amber Heard, Michael Rispoli, Richard Jenkins, Giovanni Ribisi, Marshall Bell. Plot: based on the debut novel by Hunter S. Thompson, "The Rum Diary" tells the increasingly unhinged story of an itinerant journalist (Johnny Depp). Showing at: Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Way [R] 2 hrs. 01 min Drama Watch Preview Cast: Martin Sheen, Emilio Estevez, Yorick van Wageningen, Deborah Kara Unger, James Nesbitt. Plot: an American doctor (Sheen) comes to St. Jean Pied de Port, France to collect the remains of his adult son, killed in the Pyrenees in a storm while walking The Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of Saint James. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 10/27/11

Derby Plaza - The Thing, Dolphin Tale, The  Big Year
Movie Machine - The Thing, Dolphin Tale
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Colombiana, Fright Night, Zookeeper, Harry Potter 7.2
Starlite Drive-In - LAST WEEKEND FOR THE SEASON
Warren East 13th - Contagion, The Thing, The Lion King,  Abduction, Dream House
Warren Old Town - Footloose, Moneyball, The Thing
Warren West 21st - The Thing, The Help, Contagion, Abduction

Friday, October 21, 2011

The Three Musketeers 2D, 3D **½

Paul W.S. Anderson directed this Action film. Watch Preview Cast: Logan Lerman, Milla Jovovich, Matthew Macfadyen, Ray Stevenson, Luke Evans, Mads Mikkelsen, Gabriella Wilde, Juno Temple, Orlando Bloom, Christoph Waltz. Rated PG-13 for sequences of adventure action violence. Running time is one hour and fifty minutes.

Hot-headed young D'Artagnan (Logan Lerman) joins forces with three rogue Musketeers (Matthew MacFadyen, Luke Evans and Ray Stevenson) to must stop the evil Richelieu (Christoph Waltz) and face off with Buckingham (Orlando Bloom) and the treacherous Milady (Milla Jovovich).

I had an enjoyable time watching this film. But,  make no mistake, this is no classic. I'm betting you'll have forgotten about this one ten minutes after you leave the theatre, but there's a good chance you'll have fun while you're there. This plays more like a rollicking light comedy than a serious drama. There's plenty of swashbuckling action but it's always the tongue-in-cheek kind rather than the blood and guts type. I watched the 3D version since this was actually filmed in that process rather than being converted from 2D. You can easily tell the difference and if you enjoy the 3D experience this is worth the extra money for a change. I didn't see or hear anything really offensive and would have no problem taking any of my grandchildren to see it. This should also make a good date or couples movie.

There are no additional scenes once the credits start. A large theatre will add to your enjoyment. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D  Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/21/11

MetaCritic indicates PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3 (61) is the best of the new films this week, followed by THE MIGHTY MACS (45), JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN (44) and in last place, THE THREE MUSKETEERS (34). I've seen one of these and found it enjoyable if not memorable . 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 THREE MUSKETEERS (**½)  will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

Boxoffice Magazine review of  JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN.
Roger Ebert review of THE MIGHTY MACS.
USA Today review of PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3.
Empire Magazine review of THE THREE MUSKETEERS.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Opening 10/21/11

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.

Johnny English Reborn [PG] 1 hr. 42 min. Comedy/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Rowan Atkinson, Gillian Anderson, Dominic West, Rosamund Pike, Daniel Kaluuya. Plot: the most unlikely intelligence officer in Her Majesty's Secret Service (Atkinson) must stop a group of international assassins before they eliminate a world leader and cause global chaos. Showing at:  Warren East, Warren West.

The  Mighty Macs [G] 1 hr. 50 min. Sports Drama Watch  Preview Cast: Carla Gugino, David Boreanaz, Marley Shelton, Ellen Burstyn. Plot: hired as the coach of tiny Immaculata College, a woman's (Gugino)  challenges are as imposing as the big-school teams her Macs will face. There is no gymnasium, no fan support, and no money. To top it off, she may not even have enough players for a team! Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East,  Warren West.

Paranormal Activity 3 [PG-13] 1 hr. 24  min.  Supernatural Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Katie Featherston, Sprague Grayden, Lauren Bittner. Plot: in 1988, two young sisters (Featherston, Grayden)  befriend an invisible entity who inhabits their home. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Three Musketeers 2D, 3D [PG-13] 1 hr. 51  min.  Action Watch Preview Cast: Logan Lerman, Milla Jovovich, Matthew Macfadyen, Ray Stevenson, Luke Evans, Mads Mikkelsen, Gabriella Wilde, Juno Temple, Orlando Bloom, Christoph Waltz. Plot: hot-headed young D'Artagnan (Logan Lerman) joins forces with three rogue Musketeers (Matthew MacFadyen, Luke Evans and Ray Stevenson) to must stop the evil Richelieu (Christoph Waltz) and face off with Buckingham (Orlando Bloom) and the treacherous Milady (Milla Jovovich).  Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 10/20/11

Derby Plaza -  Moneyball, Dream House
Movie Machine - Moneyball
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 30 Minutes Or Less, Spy Kids 4, Cowboys & Aliens
Starlite Drive-In - open weekends only
Warren East 13th - Drive, The Help, Killer Elite, Higher Ground
Warren Old Town - What's Your Number, Dream House, 50/50
Warren West 21st - What's Your Number, Killer Elite, The  Lion King, Dream House, Abduction

Friday, October 14, 2011

Footloose ***

Craig Brewer wrote and directed this Musical. Watch Preview. Cast:Kenny Wormald, Julianne Hough, Andie MacDowell, Dennis Quaid, Miles Teller. Rated PG-13 for some teen drug and alcohol use, sexual content, violence and language. Running time is one hour and fifty-three minutes.

Delivers a new take of the 1984 classic film. A newcomer (Kenny Wormald) challenges a town's ban on loud music and dancing, revitalizing the town and falling in love with the minister's troubled daughter (Julianne Hough) in the process.

Fans of the original will probably see no reason to watch this new version but for the younger crowd it does use a new cast  of fresh faces to tell the same basic story. Wormald is fine and Hough is very good. She appears to have a  bright future in the movies as well as her singing and dancing careers. The pacing is fine and there are no particularly slow parts. The music and dance routines are just what you'd expect and  were  very enjoyable.

The size of the auditorium is not important for this film. There are no additional scenes once the end credits begin. Theatres/Times.

The Thing **½

Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. directed this Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton, Jonathan Lloyd Walker, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Eric Olsen, Ulrich Thomsen, Paul Braunstein, Trond Espen Selm, Jorgen Langhelle. Rated R for strong creature violence and gore, disturbing images, and language. Running time is one hour and forty-three minutes.

A Norwegian scientific team stumbles across an extraterrestrial ship buried in the ice and discovers an organism that seems to have died in the crash eons ago. When a simple experiment frees the alien from its frozen prison, a paleontologist (Winstead) must join the crew's pilot (Edgerton) to keep it from killing them off one at a time. Serves as a prelude to John Carpenter's classic 1982 film of the same name.

Featuring a cast of relative unknowns, this film depends on cgi effects to keep you involved. That worked pretty well for me. This is a film you'll forget about shortly after leaving but it does keep you interested while it's showing. The cgi effects are pretty gross at times so those with weak stomachs may not want to watch. I don't know that we needed a prequel to the Carpenter film but sci-fi/thriller fans should find this acceptable.

A large screen will add to the film's impact as will the screaming of a large audience. Don't be in a rush to leave when the credits start, there are several action sequences mixed into those credits. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/14/11

MetaCritic indicates HIGHER GROUND (74) is the best of the new films this week, followed by FOOTLOOSE (58), THE BIG YEAR (54) and in last place, THE THING (48). I've seen two of these and found both to be entertaining. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of FOOTLOOSE (***) and THE THING (** ½) will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

Washington Post review of THE BIG YEAR.
Miami Hearld review of FOOTLOOSE.
Roger Moore review of HIGHER GROUND.
Roger Ebert review of THE THING.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Opening 10/14/11

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.

The Big Year [PG] 1 hr. 50 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Steve Martin, Jack Black, Owen Wilson, Brian Dennehy, Rashida Jones, Rosamund Pike, Dianne Wiest. Plot: three friendly rivals, tired of being ruled by obligations and responsibilities, dedicate a year of their lives to following their dreams. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Footloose [PG-13] 1 hr. 43 min. Musical Watch Preview Cast: Kenny Wormald, Julianne Hough, Andie MacDowell, Dennis Quaid, Miles Teller. Plot: delivers a new take of the 1984 classic film. A newcomer (Kenny Wormald) challenges a town's ban on loud music and dancing, revitalizing the town and falling in love with the minister's troubled daughter (Julianne Hough) in the process. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Higher Ground [R] 1 hr. 51 min. Religious Drama Watch Preview Cast: Vera Farmiga, Joshua Leonard, Bill Irwin, Donna Murphy, Norbert Leo Butz, John Hawkes, Dagamara Dominczyk, Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Plot: a study of one woman's internal struggle with the primary love relationships in her life. Showing at: Warren East.

The Thing [R] 1 hr. 43 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton, Jonathan Lloyd Walker, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Eric Olsen, Ulrich Thomsen, Paul Braunstein, Trond Espen Selm, Jorgen Langhelle. Plot: a Norwegian scientific team stumbles across an extraterrestrial ship buried in the ice and discovers an organism that seems to have died in the crash eons ago. When a simple experiment frees the alien from its frozen prison, a paleontologist (Winstead)  must join the crew's pilot (Edgerton) to keep it from killing them off one at a time. Serves as a prelude to John Carpenter's classic 1982 film of the same name. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 10/13/11

Derby Plaza - What's Your Number, The Lion King, Abduction
Movie Machine - Abduction,  Contagion, What's Your Number
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Transformers: Dark Of The Moon
Starlite Drive-In - open weekends only
Warren East 13th - Restless, What's Your Number, The Guard, Sarah's Key
Warren Old Town - Killer Elite
Warren West 21st - Drive, The Lion King

Friday, October 07, 2011

The Ides Of March ***½

George Clooney wrote, produced and directed this Political Drama. Watch Preview. Cast:Ryan Gosling, George Clooney, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Marisa Tomei, Paul Giamatti, Jeffrey Wright, Max Minghella, Evan Rachel Wood. Rated R for pervasive language. Running time is one hour and forty-one minutes.

An up-and-coming campaign press secretary (Ryan Gosling) finds himself involved in a political scandal that threatens to upend his candidate's (George Clooney) shot at the presidency.

There are so many things right about this film. The cast is first rate, the plot is interesting and keeps you involved, the pacing is great, and the ending will give you something to think/talk about after you leave the theatre. I'm going to be really surprised if this isn't up for several Academy Awards. This is one you really  shouldn't miss.

The size of the theatre will make no difference in your enjoyment. There are no further scenes once the credits start.  Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/7/11

MetaCritic indicates THE IDES OF MARCH (67) is the best of the new films this week, followed by REAL STEEL (59), and in last place, RESTLESS (47). I've seen one of these and found it to be very good. 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 IDES OF MARCH (***½)  will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

Roger Ebert review of The Ides Of March.
Los Angeles Times review of  Real Steel.
Entertainment Weekly review of Restless.

Monday, October 03, 2011

Opening 10/7/11

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.

The Ides Of March [R] 1 hr. 41 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Ryan Gosling, George Clooney, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Marisa Tomei, Paul Giamatti, Jeffrey Wright, Max Minghella, Evan Rachel Wood. Plot:  an up-and-coming campaign press secretary (Ryan Gosling) finds himself involved in a political scandal that threatens to upend his candidate's (George Clooney) shot at the presidency.  Showing at:  Warren East, Warren West.

Real Steel 2D & IMAX [PG-13] 2 hrs. 7 min. Action/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Hugh Jackman, Evangeline Lilly, Dakota Goyo, Anthony Mackie, Kevin Durand. Plot: set in the near-future, where the sport of boxing has gone hi-tech, a father (Hugh Jackman) teams up with his estranged son (Dakota Goyo) to build and train a championship robot contender. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Restless [PG-13] 1 hr. 35 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Henry Hopper, Ryo Kase, Schuyler Fisk, Jane Adams. Plot:  two outsiders, both shaped by the circumstances that have brought them together, forge a deep and lasting love. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 10/6/11

Derby Plaza - Contagion
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Friends With Benefits, Conan The Barbarian, Final Destination 5, Horrible Bosses
Starlite Drive-In - open weekends only
Warren East 13th - Crazy-Stupid-Love, Straw Dogs, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, I Don't Know How  She Does It
Warren Old Town - Abduction
Warren West 21st - Seven Days In Utopia

Friday, September 30, 2011

The Guard ***½

John Michael McDonagh wrote and directed this Dramedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Brendan Gleeson, Don Cheadle, Mark Strong, Liam Cunningham, Fionnuala Flanagan, David Wilmot, Rory Keenan, Pat Shortt, Katarina Cas. Rated R for pervasive language, some violence, drug material and sexual content. Running time is one hour and thirty-six minutes.

An unorthodox Irish policeman (Brendan Gleeson) joins forces with a straitlaced FBI agent (Don Cheadle) to take on an international drug-smuggling gang.

To say Gleeson's character is unorthodox is putting it mildly. In America, he would have been suspended in short order. But in Ireland and it's culture, it works. The rating's "pervasive language" should be taken literally as I don't think I've heard the 'F' word used so much, ever. However, after a while it gets to be funny since it's such an integral part of how the characters speak. What really makes this an excellent film is Gleeson's character's likeability. He has his flaws but underneath he's a good cop, a good son, and a likeable man. I probably wouldn't have seen this pic had it not been recommended to me but I'm really glad I did. I enjoyed it as much as anything I've seen all  summer.

Screen size and theatre  sound are unimportant to the enjoyability of this film. There are no additional scenes once the credits start, although I was hoping there would be (you'll just have to see it to understand why). Theatre/Times.

What's Your Number **

Mark Mylod directed this Romantic Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Anna Faris, Chris Evans, Ari Graynor, Blythe Danner, Joel McHale, Dave Annabelle, Andy Samberg, Zachary Quinto, Tom Lennon, Aziz Ansari, Anthony Mackie, Martin Freeman, Mike Vogel. Rated R for sexual content and language. Running time is one hour and forty-six minutes.

A woman (Faris) embarks on a quest to find the best "ex" of her life when she reads a magazine article warning that people who have had 20 or more relationships have missed their chance at true love and she realizes she's already hit that number.

Faris is an attractive actress who used to be known as the "scream queen" for her roles in thrillers. Here she's trying to move to light comedy, a genre she clearly has the talent for. In this case, however, she's so severely limited by a poor quality script there's not much she can do to salvage the film. Her character is all over the place, from sweet and talented to completely ditsy. Consequently, you never get a feel for the character and never care what happens to her. The script is clearly oriented to a very young crowd with it's constant sexual comments but many of them will be unable to attend due to the clearly deserved R rating. There are occasional funny moments, but not enough to make it worth your while.

Screen size and sound quality are inconsequential. There are no extra scenes once the credity start. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 9/30/11

MetaCritic indicates THE GUARD (78) is the best of the new films this week, followed by 50/50 (73), COURAGEOUS (38), WHAT'S YOUR NUMBER? (37), and in last place, DREAM HOUSE (00, No national reviews). The national critics and I agree on THE GUARD and DREAM HOUSE. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of  WHAT'S YOUR NUMBER (**) and THE GUARD (***½) will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

James Berardinelli review of 50/50.
Orlando Sentinel review of Courageous.
MovieWeb review of Dream House.
Empire review of The Guard.
Arizona Republic review of What's Your Number?.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Opening 9/30/11

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.

50/50 [R] 1 hr. 39 min. Dramedy Watch Preview Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick, Bryce Dallas Howard, Anjelica Huston, Philip Baker Hall. Plot: a man (Gordon-Levitt) diagnosed with cancer  decides to use humor in helping fight against the disease. Showing at:  Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Courageous 2 hrs. 10 min. Religious Drama Watch Preview Cast: Alex Kendrick, Kevin Downes, Ben Davies, Matt Hardwick, Ken Beve. Plot: four law enforcement officers make a decision that changes all of their lives. Showing at: Northrock 14 ?, Warren East,  Warren West.

Dream House [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Suspense/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Daniel Craig, Naomi Watts, Rachel Weisz, Marton Csokas, Elias Koteas, Jane Alexander. Plot: a family unknowingly moves into a home where several grisly murders were committed...only to find themselves the killer's next target. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Guard 1 hr. 36 min. Dramedy Watch Preview Cast: Brendan Gleeson, Don Cheadle, Mark Strong, Liam Cunningham, Fionnuala Flanagan, David Wilmot, Rory Keenan, Pat Shortt, Katarina Cas. Plot: an unorthodox Irish policeman (Brendan Gleeson) joins forces with a straitlaced FBI agent (Don Cheadle) to take on an international drug-smuggling gang. Showing at:  Warren East.

What's Your Number [R] 1 hr. 46 min. Romantic Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Anna Faris, Chris Evans, Ari Graynor, Blythe Danner, Joel McHale, Dave Annabelle, Andy Samberg, Zachary Quinto, Tom Lennon, Aziz Ansari, Anthony Mackie, Martin Freeman, Mike Vogel. Plot: a woman embarks on a quest to find the best "ex" of her life when she reads a magazine article warning that people who have had 20 or more relationships have missed their chance at true love. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 9/29/11

Derby Plaza - I Don't Know How She Does It, Drive
Movie Machine - I Don't Know How She Does It
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Kung Fu Panda 2, Bad Teacher, Mr. Popper's Penguins, Bridesmaids, The Change Up
Starlite Drive-In - open weekends only
Warren East 13th - Warrior, The  Debt, Straw Dogs
Warren Old Town - Drive, Straw Dogs, Contagion
Warren West 21st - The Debt, Harry Potter 7.2, Straw Dogs, Warrior, I Don't Know How She Does It

Friday, September 23, 2011

Moneyball **½

Bennett Miller directed this Drama Watch Preview Cast: Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Robin Wright, Stephen Bishop, Kathyrn Morris, Chris Pratt. Rated PG-13 for some strong language. Running time is two hours and thirteen minutes.

The general manager of the Oakland A's (Brad Pitt) teams with Ivy League grad Peter Brand (Jonah Hill) in an unlikely partnership, recruiting bargain players the scouts call flawed, but all of whom have an ability to get on base, score runs, and win games.

The national reviews mostly seem high on this film but I found it to be too long and too slowly paced to be really entertaining. It's at least thirty minutes too long and there's clearly a lot that could have been dispensed with. I also had a hard time ever getting in sync with Pitt's character and as a result I didn't really care what happened to him. There is a very fine sequence toward the end of the film where the team is attempting to break a record that really caught my interest, but that was the only one. Baseball fans will no doubt be far  more impressed than I was.

No real reason to worry about the size of the screen or the quality of the sound. This is mostly about sitting around and talking. There are no extra  sequences once the film credits start. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 9/23/11

MetaCritic indicates MONEYBALL (88) is the best of the new films this week, followed by DOLPHIN TALE (66), SARAH'S KEY (59), THE KILLER ELITE (43), and in last place, ABDUCTION (32).  The national critics and I certainly disagree on MONEYBALL although if you're a hard core baseball fan you may agree with them. 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 MONEYBALL (**½) will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

USA Today review of ABDUCTION.
Orlando Sentinel review of DOLPHIN TALE.
Rolling Stone review of KILLER ELITE.
San Francisco Chronicle review of MONEYBALL.
Roger Ebert review of SARAH'S KEY.

Need Work Done At Your Home?

What are you in the mood for?

Click on a genre then on a film to see where and when it is playing.


Action | Comedy | Drama
Family | Romance | Sci-Fi | Thriller

Blog Archive

About Me

My photo
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.

Live Traffic


If you would like to receive or stop receiving the bi-weekly email reminders: Contact Me