Worthwhile (or not) 12/6/13

MetaCritic indicates Out Of The Furnace (65) is the best picture this week. Once again, it's in the top position because it's the only new film this week. I saw it and wasn't nearly as impressed as the national critics. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 12/6/13

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.

Out Of The Furnace [R] 1 hr. 56 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Christian Bale, Woody Harrelson, Casey Affleck, Forest Whitaker, Willem Dafoe, Zoë Saldana, Sam Shepard. Plot: after his brother (Affleck) disappears, a man (Bale) takes matters into his own hands, putting his life on the line to seek justice for him after local law enforcement drops the ball. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 12/5/13

Derby Plaza - nothing
Movie Machine - nothing
Palace West - One Direction: This Is Us
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - nothing
Warren Old Town - nothing
Warren West 21st - nothing

Homefront **½

Gary Fleder directed this Action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Jason Statham, James Franco, Winona Ryder, Kate Bosworth, Frank Gillo. Rated R for strong violence, pervasive language, drug content and brief sexuality. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.

A widowed ex-DEA agent (Statham) retires to a small town for the sake of his 10-year-old daughter but discovers he picked the wrong town.

All you can say about this film is that it's a Jason Statham action pic. Then again, that's about all you have to say since this is the only action film for this holiday period. The plot is threadbare, Sylvester Stallone wrote it.  And, it's silly enough in parts it's really hard to take seriously. But, plot isn't what this about so the action fans will  be more than pleased. Production values are fine and the rest of the cast do their part, although Bosworth is the only one who really emotes. This will lose its screens once the big Christmas films arrive so Statham fans should catch it quickly.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is relatively unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Frozen ***½

Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee directed this Animated Family Musical Adventure. Watch Preview. Voices:  Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff, Josh Gad, Santino Fontana, Alan Tudyk. Rated PG for some action and mild rude humor. Running time is one hour and forty-eight minutes.

When a prophecy traps a kingdom in eternal winter, a fearless optimist (voice of Kristen Bell) sets out on an epic journey to find her sister (voice of Idina Menzel), the Snow Queen, and put an end to her icy spell.

This was a very pleasant surprise. A film with something for everyone: comedy, action, very good animation and some very nice music and vocals. It's  nice to see Disney with another great family film that will be enjoyed by all ages. Bell's spoken dialogue and singing selections are spot on and Menzel has an equally attractive voice as the older sister. My only quibble is that it's a bit too long and the smaller patrons may get a little restless. I saw the 2D version so I have no comment on the 3D quality.

There is a final scene after all the credits. Screen size is relatively unimportant. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 11/27/13

MetaCritic indicates Philomena (82) is the best picture this week followed by Frozen (77), The Book Thief (54), Black Nativity (51), Oldboy (50) and Homefront (37). I saw two of the films this week and thought one was excellent and the other acceptable. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 11/27/13

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.

Black Nativity [PG] 1 hr. 33 min. Family musical drama Watch Preview Cast: Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, Jennifer Hudson, Tyrese Gibson, Jacob Latimore, Nas, Luke James. Plot: a street-wise teen (Latimore) from Baltimore raised by a single mother (Hudson), journeys to New York City to spend the Christmas holiday with his estranged relatives, but finds himself unwilling to live by their rules. Showing at:Warren East,  Warren West.
 
The Book Thief [PG-13] 2 hrs. 11 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson, Sophie Nélisse. Plot: based on the beloved bestselling book about a spirited and courageous young girl who transforms the lives of everyone around her when she is sent to live with a new family in World War II Germany. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Frozen [PG] 2D/3D 1 hr. 48 min. Animated Family Musical Adventure Watch Preview Voices:  Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff, Josh Gad, Santino Fontana, Alan Tudyk. Plot: when a prophecy traps a kingdom in eternal winter, a fearless optimist (voice of Kristen Bell) sets out on an epic journey to find her sister (voice of Idina Menzel), the Snow Queen, and put an end to her icy spell. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren West.

Homefront [R] 1 hr. 50 min. Action film Watch Preview Cast: Jason Statham, James Franco, Winona Ryder, Kate Bosworth, Frank Gillo. Plot: a widowed ex-DEA agent (Statham) retires to a small town for the sake of his 10-year-old daughter but discovers he picked the wrong town. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Oldboy [R] 1 hr. 44  min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Josh Brolin, Elizabeth Olsen, Sharlto Copley, James Ransone, Samuel L. Jackson. Plot: an advertising executive (Josh Brolin) is abruptly kidnapped and held hostage for 20 years in solitary confinement. When he gets out, he wants to know why. Showing at: Warren East.

Philomena [PG-13] 1 hr. 35 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Judi Dench, Steve Coogan, Sophie Kennedy Clark. Plot: a mother (Dench) decides to discover the long-lost son she was forced to give away at birth. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 11/26/13

Derby Plaza - nothing
Movie Machine - nothing
Palace West - Prisoners, Monsters University, The Family
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - Enough Said, All Is Lost, About Time, Gravity
Warren Old Town - Last Vegas, Bad Grandpa
Warren West 21st - Cloudy With Meatballs 2, About Time, Ender's Game

Delivery Man **½

Ken Scott directed this Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Vince Vaughn, Chris Pratt, Cobie Smulders, Britt Robertson. Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, sexual content, some drug material, brief violence and language. Running time is one hour and forty-three minutes.

An affable underachiever (Vaughan) discovers his anonymous donations to a fertility clinic 20 years earlier resulted in 533 children. Now. several of them want to know who their father is.

This is a pleasant but easily forgettable comedy. Production values are fine and Vaughn is enjoyable as a middle aged guy who suddenly discovers he's the father of hundreds. Pratt (as his lawyer) and Smulders (as his pregnant girlfriend) provide decent if  minimal support, but this is all Vaughn. Most of the films released this time of year are of the epic, expensive variety so if all you want is to kill a couple of hours in an auditorium that isn't packed, this is a good bet. I wouldn't wait too long, though. I'm guessing this won't be here for long.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire ***

Francis Lawrence directed this Sci-Fi Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Lenny Kravitz, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Toby Jones, Woody Harrelson, Jena Malone, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amanda Plummer, Lynn Cohen, Patrick St. Esprit, Meta Golding, Bruno Gunn, Alan Ritchson, E. Roger Mitchell, Maria Howell, Stephanie Leigh Schlund, Sam Claflin, Jeffrey Wright. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some frightening images, thematic elements, a suggestive situation and language. Running time is two hours and twenty-six minutes.

As Katniss (Lawrence)  embarks on a "Victor's Tour' of the districts with Peeta (Hutcherson), she discovers  a rebellion is building.

Other than filling the tills once again it's hard to justify this film. It's well made and with good production values, but the story doesn't add up to much. Oh, we have different contestants in these games and they face different obstacles, but once you get past that you aren't  much further along in the story than you were when the last one ended. There's no reason for the excessive length but the pacing is good enough I only checked my watch twice. And, it's hard for me to believe many will be satisfied with the ending, which is abrupt to say the least. Clearly, this is a mere stepping stone to the next book in the series and they've already made it known that's going to be split into two films. It's getting hard not to believe this is becoming a cash cow that's being milked for all it's worth! I saw the IMAX version (which was its usual high quality) although it was obvious it wasn't filmed in IMAX except possibly for a few minutes close to the end (the full screen height isn't used during most of the film).

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen is preferable for the action scenes. Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 11/22/13

MetaCritic indicates The Dallas Buyer's Club (84) is the best picture this week followed by Hunger Games: Catching Fire (75), Delivery Man (43) and The Christmas Candle (36). I saw two of the films this week and thought both were OK. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 11/22/13

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 Christmas Candle [PG] 1 hr. 31 min. Family Drama Watch Preview Cast: Hans Matheson, Samantha Barks, Lesley Manville, Sylvester McCoy, John Hannah, Barbara Flynn, James Cosmo, Susan Boyle. Plot: legend has it every 25 years an angel visits an English village and touches a single candle. Whoever lights this candle receives a miracle on Christmas Eve. But in 1890, at the dawn of the electric age, this centuries old legend may come to an end. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Dallas Buyer's Club [R] 1 hr. 57 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Matthew McConaughy, Jennifer Garner, Jared Leto. Plot: in 1985, diagnosed as HIV-positive and given 30 days to live, a man (McConaughy) decides to take matters in his own hands, tracking down alternative treatments from all over the world by means both legal and illegal. Showing at: Warren East.

Delivery Man [PG-13] 1 hr. 43 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Vince Vaughn, Chris Pratt, Cobie Smulders, Britt Robertson. Plot: an affable underachiever (Vaughan) discovers his anonymous donations to a fertility clinic 20 years earlier resulted in 533 children. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire 2D/IMAX 2D 2 hrs. 26 min. Sci-Fi Drama Watch Preview Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Lenny Kravitz, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Toby Jones, Woody Harrelson, Jena Malone, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amanda Plummer, Lynn Cohen, Patrick St. Esprit, Meta Golding, Bruno Gunn, Alan Ritchson, E. Roger Mitchell, Maria Howell, Stephanie Leigh Schlund, Sam Claflin, Jeffrey Wright. Plot: as Katniss (Lawrence)  embarks on a "Victor's Tour' of the districts, she senses  a rebellion is simmering.
Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 11/21/13

Derby Plaza - Captain Phillips
Movie Machine - Ender's Game, Last Vegas, Jackass: Bad Grandpa
Palace West - Rush, Runner  Runner, Battle Of The Year
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - Escape Plan, Cloudy With Meatballs 2, Carrie, The Counselor
Warren Old Town - Captain Phillips, Ender's Game, Thor: The DarkWorld
Warren West 21st - Carrie, Escape Plan, We're The Millers, Ender's Game IMAX, Thor 3D/3D IMAX

Worthwhile (or not) 11/15/13

MetaCritic indicates The Best Man Holiday (58) is the best picture this week which isn't that hard since it was the only new film this week. I didn't watch anything this week as I'm resting up for next week (Hunger Games opens)! For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 11/15/2013

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 Best Man Holiday [R] 1 hr. 50 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Morris Chestnut, Taye Diggs, Regina Hall, Terrence Howard, Sanaa Lathan, Nia Long, Harold Perrineau, Monica Calhoun, Melissa De Sousa. Plot: when college friends reunite after fifteen years over the Christmas holidays, they discover just how easy it is for long-forgotten rivalries and romances to be ignited.
Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 11/14/2013

Derby Plaza - nothing
Movie Machine - nothing
Palace West - Riddick, Mortal Instruments
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - nothing
Warren Old Town - nothing
Warren West 21st - The Counselor

Thor: The Dark World **½

Alan Taylor directed this  Action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård, Idris Elba, Christopher Eccleston, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Kat Dennings, Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano, Jaimie Alexander, Rene Russo, Anthony Hopkins. Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense sci-fi action and violence, and some suggestive content. Running time is one hour and fifty-two minutes.

Continues the big-screen adventures of Thor (Hemsworth) as he battles to save Earth and all the Nine Realms from a shadowy enemy (Eccleston) that predates the universe itself.

This is an odd mixture of Norse mythology and science-fiction where you have horn-helmeted warriors with shields and swords battling others arriving in an invisible space ship with ray guns. Frankly, it looks pretty silly a great deal of the time. The cast is fine, although Portman seems wasted in this role and doesn't have much chemistry with Hemsworth. We already know this is going to make a ton of money, it opened a week earlier in Europe to big bucks. It's  mildly entertaining and well paced but instantly forgettable as soon as you leave the theatre. I saw this in IMAX 3D which was fine as usual, but this is a 2D conversion so there's no real reason to see it in 3D since the depth effects are minimal.

There are two extra sequences after the credits begin, both of which give you some info about the next film in the series. For maximum impact you will want to see this on a large screen. 2D Theatres/Times, 3D Theatres/Times, IMAX 3D Times.

About Time **½

Richard Curtis directed this Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Tom Hollander, Margot Robbie. Rated R for language and some sexual content. Running time is two hours and three minutes.

After another unsatisfactory New Year party, a father (Bill Nighy) tells his son (Domhnall Gleeson) the men in his family have always had the ability to travel through time.

I like British comedies and since that's what this is, I liked it. But, only mildly. The cast is good, and familiar to one who watches a lot of  British TV, and the production values are fine. But, it's a one note movie, the men can travel back in time, and that got a little tiresome after awhile when it became obvious the film had nothing else to offer but the repair of missed opportunities. The pacing is rather slow and the film is at least thirty minutes too long, so I was ready for this to be over before it was. This won't be here for long so I'd hurry if you want to see it.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 11/8/13

MetaCritic indicates 12 Years A Slave (97) is the best picture this week followed by All Is Lost (88), About Time (55) and Thor: The Dark World (54).  I saw two of these films this week and thought both were entertaining. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 11/8/13

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.

12 Years A Slave [R] 2 hrs. 13 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Garret Dillahunt, Paul Giamatti, Scoot McNairy, Lupita Nyong’o, Adepero Oduye, Sarah Paulson, Brad Pitt, Michael Kenneth Williams, Alfre Woodard, Chris Chalk, Taran Killam, Bill Camp. Plot: based on a true story of one man's fight for survival and freedom in the pre-Civil War United States. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

About Time [R]  2 hrs. 3 min.Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Tom Hollander, Margot Robbie. Plot: after another unsatisfactory New Year party, a father (Bill Nighy) tells his son (Domhnall Gleeson) the men in his family have always had the ability to travel through time. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

All Is Lost [PG-13] 1 hr. 46 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Robert Redford. Plot: an open-water thriller about one man's battle for survival against the elements after his sailboat is destroyed at sea. Showing at: Warren East.

Thor: The Dark World 2D/3D/3D IMAX [PG-13] 1 hr. 52 min. Action film Watch Preview Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård, Idris Elba, Christopher Eccleston, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Kat Dennings, Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano, Jaimie Alexander, Rene Russo, Anthony Hopkins. Plot: continues the big-screen adventures of Thor as he battles to save Earth and all the Nine Realms from a shadowy enemy that predates the universe itself. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 11/7/13

Derby Plaza - The Counselor, Gravity 2D
Movie Machine - Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs2
Palace West - Machete Kills, Percy Jackson
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - The Fifth Estate, Prisoners, Rush, We're The Millers, Free Birds 3D
Warren Old Town - The Counselor, Carrie
Warren West 21st - Insidious Chapter 2, Grace Unplugged, Free Birds 3D

Ender's Game **½

Gavin Hood wrote and directed this SciFi Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Asa Butterfield, Ben Kingsley, Harrison Ford, Hailee Steinfeld, Abigail Breslin, Viola Davis, Nonso Anozie, Stevie Ray Dillmore, Andrea Powell, Moises Arias, Conor Carroll, Aramis Knight, Brandon Soo hoo, Jimmy "Jax" Pinchak, Suraj Parthasarathy, Khylin Rhambo. Rated PG-13 for some violence, sci-fi action and thematic material. Running time is one hour and fifty-four minutes.

In the near future, a hostile alien race has attacked Earth. In preparation for the next attack, a highly esteemed Colonel (Harrison Ford) and the International Military are training only the best young minds to fight the next battle.

I found this a bit disappointing. It has good production values, good CGI and a good cast. What it doesn't have is a story that makes sense. The final few minutes seem more like a literary contrivance  than a flash of  mental brilliance and the ending just doesn't ring true. The other problem with the film is there's no real involvement with the characters so when all is said and done, you don't really care about them or their problems. I think part of this is because you never get to see the aliens in action, you just hear they killed millions, so for the most part they are faceless entities. That makes it hard to root for someone against something completely unknown. I saw this in IMAX and thought it a very good presentation even though I can't say the same about the film. A lot of people made the book a bestseller. It'll be interesting to hear what they have to say about the movie.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen is better for this film. Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 11/1/13

MetaCritic indicates Ender's Game (57) is the best picture this week followed by Lost Vegas (49) and Free Birds (37).  I saw one of these films this week and thought it just so-so. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 11/1/13

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.

Ender's Game 2D, IMAX [PG-13] 1 hr. 54 min. SciFi Drama Watch Preview Cast: Asa Butterfield, Ben Kingsley, Harrison Ford, Hailee Steinfeld, Abigail Breslin, Viola Davis, Nonso Anozie, Stevie Ray Dillmore, Andrea Powell, Moises Arias, Conor Carroll, Aramis Knight, Brandon Soo hoo, Jimmy "Jax" Pinchak, Suraj Parthasarathy, Khylin Rhambo. Plot: in the near future, a hostile alien race has attacked Earth. In preparation for the next attack, a highly esteemed Colonel (Harrison Ford) and the International Military are training only the best young minds to fight the next battle. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Free Birds 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 25 min. Animated Comedy Watch Preview Voices: Owen Wilson, Woody Harrelson, Amy Poehler, Dan Fogler, Lesley Nicol, George Takei, Colm Meaney, Keith David, Eddie "Piolin" Sotelo, Dwight Howard. Plot: two turkeys from opposite sides of the tracks must put aside their differences and team up to travel back in time to change the course of history - and get turkey off the Thanksgiving menu. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

Last Vegas [PG-13] 1 hr. 44 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Michael Douglas, Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Kline, Mary Steenburgen, Jerry Ferrara, Romany Malco, Roger Bart. Plot: best friends since childhood, four men head to Las Vegas with a plan to stop acting their age and relive their glory days. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 10/31/13

Derby Plaza - Carrie, Escape Plan
Movie Machine - Carrie, Escape Plan, Gravity
Palace West - Turbo, Red 2
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - Runner Runner, Insidious Chapter 2, Pulling Strings
Warren Old Town - Escape Plan, Gravity
Warren West 21st - The Fifth Estate, Prisoners, Runner Runner

The Counselor **

Ridley Scott directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Michael Fassbender, Penélope Cruz, Cameron Diaz, Javier Bardem, Brad Pitt. Rated R for graphic violence, some grisly images, strong sexual content and language. Running time is one hour ans fifty-seven minutes.

A respected lawyer's (Fassbender) dalliance with drug trafficking spirals out of control.

What a disappointment! I've been looking forward to this one since it features a first class director and a cast of very accomplished actors. But, instead of a taut thriller, we get an extremely slow paced two hours of meandering, meaningless scenes where those actors spend their time mouthing what can only be classed as psychobabble. Everything and everyone looks good but there's no depth to their characters, making us indifferent to whatever befalls them. There are a couple of extremely graphic scenes involving heads (and the loss thereof) that may satisfy fans of gore but the rest are going to be extremely bored, constantly checking their watches and wondering whether this film will ever end.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin (thank God!). Screen size is relatively unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/25/13

MetaCritic indicates Bad Grandpa (53) is the best picture this week (that's really hard for me to comprehend) followed by The Counselor (49).  I saw one of these films this week and was really, really disappointed. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 10/25/13

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 Counselor [R] 1 hr. 51 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Michael Fassbender, Penélope Cruz, Cameron Diaz, Javier Bardem, Brad Pitt. Plot: a respected lawyer's dalliance with drug trafficking spirals out of control. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa [R] 1 hr. 32 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Johnny Knoxville, Bam Margera, Steve-O, Jason "Wee Man" Acuña, Chris Pontius, Preston Lacy, Dave England, Ehren McGhehey. Plot: Irving Zisman (Johnny Knoxville) and Billy (Jackson Nicholl)  take movie audiences along for an insane hidden camera road trip. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 10/24/13

Derby Plaza - Prisoners
Movie Machine - Insidious Chapter 2
Palace West - Turbo, Red 2
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - Baggage Claim, Romeo & Juliet, Machete Kills, Don Jon
Warren Old Town - Machete Kills, Runner Runner, Prisoners
Warren West 21st - Machete Kills, The Family, Rush

Escape Plan **

Mikael Håfström directed this Action/Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Caviezel, Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Vinnie Jones, Vincent D'Onofrio, Amy Ryan. Rated R for violence and language throughout. Running time is one hour and fifty-six minutes.

After being deceived and wrongly imprisoned, one of the world's foremost authorities on structural security (Stallone) becomes determined to break out of the ultra-secret, high-tech facility and partners with another inmate (Schwarzenegger) to do so.

I'm not much for emotionalism in films but watching these two as the leads made me wish for just a little on occasion. As the old line goes, 'their acting range goes from A to B'. But when brute force is required, they're just the ticket. This is pretty much what you'd expect if you've seen the trailer, and for action fans that will be enough. There was a little twist at the end I wasn't expecting but there's no way you'd say this film breaks any new ground. I doubt this will be around long so I'd catch it while you can if you're so inclined.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is relatively unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Carrie **

Kimberly Peirce directed this Horror/Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Chloë Grace Moretz, Judy Greer, Portia Doubleday, Alex Russell, Gabriella Wilde, Ansel Elgort, Julianne Moore. Rated R for bloody violence, disturbing images, language and some sexual content. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.

A shy girl (Moretz), outcast by her peers and sheltered by her deeply religious mother (Julianne Moore), unleashes telekinetic terror on her small town after being pushed too far at her senior prom.

There's nothing really wrong with this film as far as thrillers of this type are concerned. It has two very good actresses in the lead roles and an interesting Stephen King plot. But, if you're of a certain age and saw the original 1976 version with Piper Laurie and Sissy Spacek, there's not much different either. Oh, the CGI effects are better this time around and perhaps it's a little bloodier, but it's pretty ho hum otherwise when you already know how it's going to end. If you've never seen the original and you like films of this nature you'll probably be well satisfied if you want to get out of the house. Otherwise, check out NetFlicks or Amazon for the original.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is relatively unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/18/13

MetaCritic indicates Carrie (53) is the best picture this week with The Fifth Estate and Escape Plan tied at (49).  I saw two films this week and thought neither a 'must see'. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 10/18/13

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.

Carrie [R] 1 hr. 1 hr. 39 min. Horror/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Chloë Grace Moretz, Judy Greer, Portia Doubleday, Alex Russell, Gabriella Wilde, Ansel Elgort, Julianne Moore. Plot: a shy girl (Moretz) outcast by her peers and sheltered by her deeply religious mother (Julianne Moore), unleashes telekinetic terror on her small town after being pushed too far at her senior prom. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West

Escape Plan [R] 1 hr. 56 min. Action/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Caviezel, Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Vinnie Jones, Vincent D'Onofrio, Amy Ryan. Plot: after being deceived and wrongly imprisoned, one of the world's foremost authorities on structural security becomes determined to break out of the ultra-secret, high-tech facility. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West

The Fifth Estate [R] 2 hr. 8 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Daniel Brühl, Anthony Mackie, David Thewlis, Alicia Vikander, Peter Capaldi, Carice van Houten, Dan Stevens, Stanley Tucci, Laura Linney. Plot: reveals the quest to expose the deceptions and corruptions of power that turned WikiLeaks into the 21st century's most fiercely debated organization. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West

Leaving 10/17/13

Derby Plaza - Runner Runner
Movie Machine - Runner Runner, Prisoners
Palace West - nothing
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - Parkland, Instructions Not Included, The Butler, The Family
Warren Old Town - We're The Millers
Warren West 21st - Instructions Not Included, Don Jon

Captain Phillips **

Paul Greengrass directed this Action/Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Tom Hanks, Catherine Keener, Max Martini, Yul Vazquez, Michael Chernus, Chris Mulkey, Corey Johnson, David Warshofsky, John Magaro, Angus MacInnes. Rated PG-13 for sustained intense sequences of menace, some violence with bloody images, and for substance use. Running time is two hours and fourteen minutes.

The story of Captain Richard Phillips (Hanks) and the 2009 hijacking by Somali pirates of the US-flagged MV Maersk Alabama, the first American cargo ship to be hijacked in two hundred years.

I find myself at odds with the national critics on this one. They seemed to like it and I thought it too long and with pacing that made sections quite dull. The film spends too much time on the background of the pirates (I realize there's not a lot to do there, but still...) and the final thirty minutes is a long, slow slog. Hanks is fine as usual but the rest of the cast spent the rest of the time screaming and being quite unpleasant (yes, I know, they were unpleasant, but a little of that goes a long way). I also found the Phillips character somewhat disconcerting, especially in the final scenes when he seems to lose all emotional control. Younger crowds may like this better than I did but I suspect older patrons are going to be spending a lot of time looking at their watches.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen will provide more impact. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/11/13

MetaCritic indicates Captain Phillips (81) is the best picture this week followed by  Parkland (51), and tied in last place, Machete Kills (43) and Romeo & Juliet (43).  I saw just one film this week and wasn't nearly as impressed as the national critics. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 10/11/13

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.

Captain Phillips [PG-13] 2 hrs. 14 min. Action/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Tom Hanks, Catherine Keener, Max Martini, Yul Vazquez, Michael Chernus, Chris Mulkey, Corey Johnson, David Warshofsky, John Magaro, Angus MacInnes. Plot: the true story of Captain Richard Phillips (Hanks) and the 2009 hijacking by Somali pirates of the US-flagged MV Maersk Alabama, the first American cargo ship to be hijacked in two hundred years. Showing at: Derby Plaza?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Machete Kills [R] 1 hr. 48 min. Action/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Danny Trejo, Michelle Rodriguez, Sofia Vergara, Amber Heard, Carlos Estevez, Lady Gaga, Antonio Banderas, Jessica Alba, Demián Bichir, Alexa Vega, Vanessa Hudgens, Cuba Gooding, Jr., William Sadler, Marko Zaror, Mel Gibson. Plot: an ex-Federale agent (Trejo) is recruited by the President of the United States for a mission to take down a madman revolutionary. Showing at: Derby Plaza?, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Parkland [PG-13] 1 hr. 32 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Zac Efron, Marcia Gay Harden, Billy Bob Thornton, Jacki Weaver, Paul Giamatti, James Badge Dale, Jackie Earle Haley, Colin Hanks, David Harbour, Ron Livingston, Jeremy Strong, Tom Welling. Plot: based on the book "Four Days In November," by renowned author and former prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi concerning the events surrounding the JFK assassination. Showing at: Warren East.

Romeo & Juliet [PG-13] 1 hr. 58 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Hailee Steinfeld, Douglas Booth, Stellan Skarsgard, Paul Giamatti, Ed Westwick, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Christian Cooke, Tom Wisdon, Damian Lewis, Natascha McElhone, Tomas Arana, Laura Morante. Plot: an ageless story from the world's most renowned author is reimagined yet again. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 10/10/13

Derby Plaza -
Movie Machine - nothing
Palace West - The Conjuring, 2 Guns
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - Riddick, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 3D
Warren Old Town - Rush, Don Jon
Warren West 21st - Baggage Claim, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 3D

Gravity****

Alfonso Cuarón co-wrote and directed this Sci-Fi thriller Watch Preview Cast: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney. Rated PG-13 for intense perilous sequences, some disturbing images and brief strong language. Running time is one hour and thirty minutes.

A brilliant medical engineer (Bullock) on her first shuttle mission, and a veteran astronaut (George Clooney) in command of his last flight before retiring are faced with disaster when space debris strikes their space station.

As you know, I watch a lot of  movies, and I'd be hard pressed to think of one I've seen in the past few years better than this one. It starts fairly normally but within a few minutes the action starts and never lets up. It features edge-of-your-seat intensity, and photography so stunning you'll swear it was actually shot in orbit. Although Clooney has his moments, this is Bullock's film from start to finish and she is absolutely outstanding. I knew she was very good in light comedy roles but I had no idea she could pull something like this off. Additionally, the pacing is spot on and I guarantee you won't be looking at your watch during this film. I saw this in IMAX 3D and want to point out if you've been thinking about attending an IMAX feature and haven't yet done so, this is the one to see on that giant screen. The 3D is breathtaking without feeling in the least contrived. If Bullock doesn't get a Best Actress nomination for this it will be a real travesty.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. This is a film I highly recommend you see in IMAX. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/4/13

MetaCritic indicates Gravity (97) is the best picture this week followed by Enough Said (79), Pulling Strings (56), and in last place, Runner Runner (35).  Grace Unplugged wasn't reviewed by any of MetaCritic's reviewers so it has no score. I saw just one film this week and found it outstanding. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 10/4/13

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.

Enough Said [PG-13] 1 hr. 31 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, James Gandolfini, Catherine Keener, Toni Collette, Ben Falcone, Eve Hewson, Tavi Gevinson, Tracey Fairaway. Plot: a divorced and single parent (Julia Louis Dreyfus) spends her days enjoying work as a masseuse but dreading her daughter's impending departure for college. Then she meets  a sweet, funny and like-minded man (James Gandolfini) also facing an empty nest. Showing at: Warren East.

Grace Unplugged [PG] 1 hr. 42 min. Music Drama Watch Preview Cast: AJ Michalka, James Denton, Kevin Pollak. Plot: an 18-year-old Christian singer/songwriter (AJ Michalka) seems prepared to walk away from her Christian faith and music to achieve her long-suppressed fantasy of Hollywood superstardom. Showing at: Warren West.

Gravity 2D/3D/IMAX 3D [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Sci-Fi thriller Watch Preview Cast: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney. Plot: a brilliant medical engineer (Bullock) on her first shuttle mission, and a veteran astronaut (George Clooney) in command of his last flight before retiring are faced with disaster. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Pulling Strings [PG] 1 hr. 52 min. Romantic comedy Watch Preview Cast: Laura Ramsey, Tom Arnold, Jaime Camil, Stockard Channing. Plot: a career diplomat (Ramsey) gets drunk, passes out on the street, and wakes up in the apartment of a handsome Mariachi singer with no recollection of how she got there. Showing at: Warren East.

Runner Runner [R] 1 hr. 31 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Justin Timberlake, Ben Affleck, Gemma Arterton, Anthony Mackie. Plot: a Princeton grad student (Justin Timberlake), believing he's been swindled, travels to Costa Rica to confront an online gambling tycoon (Ben Affleck). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 10/3/13

Derby Plaza - The Family, We're The Millers, Planes
Movie Machine - The Family, Monsters University
Palace West - Wolverine, R.I.P.D., This Is The End
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - In A World, Battle Of The Year 2D/3D, Elysium, Plane
Warren Old Town - The Family, Insidious Chapter 2
Warren West 21st - The Butler, Despicable Me 2, Battle Of The Year

Don Jon **

Joseph Gordon-Levitt wrote, directed and stars in this Comedy drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Scarlett Johansson, Julianne Moore, Tony Danza, Brie Larson, Glenne Headly. Rated R for strong graphic sexual material and dialogue throughout, nudity, language and some drug use. Running time is one hour and thirty minutes.

An old fashioned guy (Gordon-Levitt) and an old fashioned girl (Johansson) struggle against a media culture full of false fantasies to try and find true intimacy.

This is a well made film with attractive stars and good pacing. Unfortunately, for me at any rate, I didn't like the characters at all which left me uninterested in their problems or solutions. I also failed to find it particularly humorous. I can see those in their late teens or early twenties finding something of interest but I don't think an older crowd will find this at all entertaining. The first half of the film is very crude, both with language and in porn clips, and I found the last half to be improbable. I understand Gordon-Levitt's trying to point out the difference between lust and true romance but the method he chooses just didn't work for me. To put it another way, I think the excellent actress Julianne Moore is woefully miscast. I won't go any further in that regard in case you intend to see the film, but you'll see what I mean if you do.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 9/27/13

MetaCritic indicates In A World (79) is the best picture this week followed by Rush (74), Don Jon (66), Metallica Through The Never (61), Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 (58), and in last place, Baggage Claim (33).  I saw just one film this week and am wondering who the audience is for it. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 9/27/13

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.

Baggage Claim [PG-13] 1 hr. 36 min. Romantic comedy Watch Preview Cast: Paula Patton, Derek Luke, Taye Diggs, Jill Scott, Boris Kodjoe, Tremaine Neverson, Adam Brody, Jenifer Lewis, Ned Beatty, Lauren London, Tia Mowry, La La Anthony, Christina Milian, Affion Crockett, Terrence J, Rickey Smiley, Thomas Miles, Djimon Hounsou. Plot: determined to get engaged before her youngest sister's wedding, a flight attendant (Paula Patton) finds herself with only 30 days to find Mr. Right. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 35 min. Animated Comedy Watch Preview Voices: Bill Hader, Anna Faris, James Caan, Will Forte, Andy Samberg, Benjamin Bratt, Neil Patrick Harris, Terry Crews, Kristen Schaal. Plot: picks up where the first mouth-watering comedy left off. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

Don Jon [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Romance Watch Preview Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Scarlett Johansson, Julianne Moore, Tony Danza, Brie Larson, Glenne Headly. Plot: an old fashioned guy (Gordon-Levitt) and an old fashioned girl (Johansson) struggle against a media culture full of false fantasies to try and find true intimacy. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
 
In A World [R] 1 hr. 33 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Lake Bell, Michaela Watkins, Demetri Martin, Rob Corddry, Michaela Watkins, Ken Marino, Fred Melamed, Tig Notaro. Plot: a struggling vocal coach (Bell) musters the courage to pursue her secret aspiration to be a voice-over star. Showing at: Warren East.

Metallica Through The Never IMAX 3D [R] 1 hr. 32 min. Musical thriller Watch Preview Cast: Dane DeHaan, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, Robert Trujillo. Plot: a young roadie (DeHaan) is sent on an urgent mission during Metallica's roaring live set in front of a sold-out arena. Showing at: Warren West.

Rush [R] 2 hrs. 3 min. Action drama Watch Preview Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Daniel Brühl, Olivia Wilde, Alexandra Maria Lara, Stephen Mangan, Christian McKay, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Jamie de Courcey, Pierfrancesco Favino, Natalie Dormer. Plot: a spectacular big-screen re-creation of the merciless 1970s rivalry between James Hunt and Niki Lauda. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 9/26/13

Derby Plaza - Riddick, The Spectacular Now
Movie Machine - The Butler
Palace West - World War Z, Now You See Me, The Lone Ranger, Man Of Steel
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - Red 2, The Heat, 2 Guns, Mortal Instruments, Blue Jasmine, Austenland
Warren Old Town - Riddick, The Butler
Warren West 21st - Planes, Elysium, The Conjuring, Mortal Instruments, Ultimate Life, One Direction: This Is Us 3D

Worthwhile (or not)

MetaCritic indicates Prisoners (73) is the best picture this week followed by Battle Of The Year (24).  I didn't see any new reviews for The Wizard Of Oz altho its 2011 re-release got 100.  I chose not to watch anything this week. Had Prisoners been a reasonable length instead of a ridiculously excessive two hours and thirty-three minutes I might have watched it, even though it appears to be a real downer. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 9/20/13

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.

Battle Of The Year 2D/3D [PG-13] 1 hr. 49 min. Watch Preview Drama/Musical Cast: Josh Holloway, Laz Alonso, Josh Peck, Caity Lotz, Chris Brown. Plot: about an international dance crew tournament that attracts all the best teams from around the world, but the Americans haven't won in fifteen years. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Prisoners [R] 2 hr. 33 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Maria Bello, Terrance Howard, Viola Davis, Melissa Leo, Paul Dano. Plot: when  a 6-year-old girl and her young friend go missing, minutes turn to hours and panic sets in. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Wizard Of Oz IMAX 3D [PG] 1 hr. 42 min.  Family, Fantasy  Watch Preview Cast: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, Jack Haley, Billie Burke, Margaret Hamilton. Plot: Victor Fleming's 1939 classic is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a 3D re-release in IMAX theaters. Showing at: Warren West.

Leaving 9/19/13

Derby Plaza - The Butler
Movie Machine - Planes, We're The Millers
Palace West - Iron Man, Kick-Ass 2
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - One Direction, The World's End, Percy Jackson 2, Getaway
Warren Old Town - This Is The End
Warren West 21st - Riddick IMAX, Percy Jackson 2, This Is The End, 2 Guns

The Family ***

Luc Besson directed this Action comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Tommy Lee Jones, Dianna Agron, John D'Leo, Domenick Lombardozzi. Rated R for violence, language and brief sexuality. Running time is one hour and fifty minutes.

A mafia boss and his family are relocated to a sleepy town in France under the witness protection program, but their former mob cronies track them down.

My wife doesn't care for action/violence films so imagine my surprise when she told me she really liked this film. To her, the family seemed real and interesting so the action never really bothered  her. Well, there's plenty of action and violence but there's a fair amount of comedy to go along with it, making for an attractive combo in my estimation. The cast is first rate although Jones seems to be an add-on rather than a main character. And, the four leads do have a real family vibe that makes their situation even more interesting. Those who are offended by profanity should consider skipping this but other adults should find this entertaining. Parts of the film were shot in France so you also get to see a little French scenery.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is relatively unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 9/13/13

MetaCritic indicates The Family (48) is the best picture this week followed by Austenland (42) and  Insidious Chapter 2 (41).  I saw one of these and found it entertaining for adults. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 9/13/13

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.

Austenland [PG-13] 1 hr. 37 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Keri Russell, J.J. Feild, Bret McKenzie, James Callis, Jennifer Coolidge, Jane Seymour, Rupert Vansittart. Plot: a seemingly normal young New Yorker has an obsession with Mr. Darcy, as played by Colin Firth in the BBC adaptation of "Pride & Prejudice". Showing at:  Warren East.

The Family [R] 1 hr. 51 min. Action comedy Watch Preview Cast: Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Tommy Lee Jones, Dianna Agron, John D'Leo, Domenick Lombardozzi. Plot: a mafia boss and his family are relocated to a sleepy town in France under the witness protection program, but their former mob cronies track them down. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Insidious Chapter 2 [PG-13] 1 hr. 45 min. Horror film Watch Preview Cast: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye, Ty Simpkins, Barbara Hershey, Danielle Bisutti, Michael James Grise, Lindsay Seim. Plot: the haunted Lambert family seeks to uncover the mysterious childhood secret that has left them dangerously connected to the spirit world. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 9/12/13

Derby Plaza - The Mortal Instruments, Percy Jackson 2, One Direction: This Is Us
Movie Machine - Percy Jackson 2, The Mortal Instruments
Palace West - Pacific Rim
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - You're Next, The Spectacular Now, Grandmaster, Closed Circuit, This Is The End
Warren Old Town - Getaway, The Mortal Instruments, You're Next
Warren West 21st - You're Next, The Wolverine, The World's End, Closed Circuit, Getaway

Riddick **½

David Twohy directed this Sci-fi action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Vin Diesel, Karl Urban, Jordi Molla, Matt Nable, Katee Sackhoff, Bokeem Woodbine, Dave Bautista, Conrad Pla, Raoul Trujillo, Nolan Funk, Keri Hilson. Rated R for strong violence, language and some sexual content/nudity. Running time is two hours.

Left for dead on a sun-scorched planet that appears to be lifeless, Riddick (Diesel) finds himself fighting for survival against alien predators more lethal than any human he's encountered.

If you've watched the two earlier Riddick films, you know exactly what you're in for. If you haven't seen them you're going to be at a loss at times, but not enough so you can't fill in the gaps. The fact he can only see well in the dark is downplayed and isn't much of a feature this time around. Production values are fine and the cast is also. Violence/action fans should love this but that's about all this has going for it. I watched the IMAX version which was great at showing the planetary hell the action occurs on. The ending clearly leaves the impression a further sequel is possible.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen will provide more impact. Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 9/6/13

MetaCritic indicates Riddick (46) is the best picture this week followed by The Ultimate Life (20).  Instructions Not Included doesn't have enough reviews for a rating but those it does have are positive. For all the reviews take the link to the MetaCritic website for each film by clicking on the titles above.

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

Opening 9/6/13

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.

Instructions Not Included [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Eugenio Derbez, Jessica Lindsey, Loreto Peralta, Daniel Raymont, Alessandra Rosaldo, Hugo Stiglitz, Arcelia Ramirez. Plot: a former fling of Acapulco’s resident playboy leaves a baby on his doorstep and takes off without a trace, leaving him to raise the child alone. In Spanish with English subtitles. Showing at: Warren East.

Riddick [R] 2 hrs. Sci-fi action Watch Preview Cast: Vin Diesel, Karl Urban, Jordi Molla, Matt Nable, Katee Sackhoff, Bokeem Woodbine, Dave Bautista, Conrad Pla, Raoul Trujillo, Nolan Funk, Keri Hilson. Plot: left for dead on a sun-scorched planet that appears to be lifeless, Riddick (Diesel) finds himself fighting for survival against alien predators more lethal than any human he's encountered. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Ultimate Life [PG] 1 hr. 49 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Peter Fonda, Logan Bartholemew, Bill Cobbs, Lee Meriwhether, Ali Hillis. Plot: when a man discovers the lifelong journal his grandfather began as a Depression-era lad, the writings provide him with a front-row seat on an incredible rags-to-riches ride. Showing at: Warren West.

Leaving 9/5/13

Derby Plaza - Elysium
Movie Machine - nothing
Palace West - White House Down
Starlite Drive-In - Open Fri-Sat
Warren East 13th - The Conjuring, Kick-Ass 2, Monsters University, Jobs, Despicable Me 2, Grown Ups 2, The Way, Way Back
Warren Old Town - Kick-Ass 2
Warren West 21st - The Smurfs 2, Jobs, Monsters University, Kick-Ass 2, IMAX Mortal Instruments: City Of Bones