Opening 7/1/15

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.

Faith Of Our Fathers [PG-13] 1 hr. 33 min. Religious Oriented Drama Watch Preview Cast: Rebecca St. James, Stephen Baldwin, Kevin Downes, David A.R. White, Candance Cameron Bure, Si Robertson. Plot: two men discover the devastation of war cannot break the love of a father for his son. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Magic Mike XXL [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Channing Tatum, Amber Heard, Adam Rodriguez, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Gabriel Iglesias, Jada Pinkett Smith, Andie MacDowell, Elizabeth Banks, Donald Glover, Michael Strahan. Plot: on the road to their final show, Mike and the guys learn some new moves and shake off the past in surprising ways. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Terminator Genisys [PG-13] 2D/3D/IMAX 3D 2 hrs. 5 min. Sci-Fi Action Watch Preview Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jason Clarke, Jai Courtney, Matt Smith, Emilia Clarke, Byung-hun Lee, J.K. Simmons, Sandrine Holt, Dayo Okeniyi, Michael Gladis. Plot: when John Connor (Jason Clarke), leader of the human resistance, sends Sgt. Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) back to 1984 to protect Sarah Connor (Emilia Clarke) and safeguard the future, an unexpected turn of events creates a fractured timeline. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 6/30/15

Movie Machine - Spy
Palace West - Poltergeist, Monkey Kingdom [Both Drop 7/2]
Warren East 13th - Insidious Chapter 3, Tomorrowland, Jurassic World 3D
Warren West 21st - Dope, Mad Max: Fury Road, Avengers: Age Of Ultron, Jurassic World IMAX 3D, Inside Out 3D
Warren Old Town - San Andreas,

Max **½

Boaz Yakin co-wrote and directed this Family adventure. Watch Preview. Cast: Lauren Graham, Thomas Haden Church, Jay Hernandez, Robbie Amell, Josh Wiggins, Luke Kleintank, Miles Mussenden, Dejon LaQuake. Rated PG for action violence, peril, brief language and some thematic elements. Running time is one hour and fifty-one minutes.

A precision-trained military dog, Max, whose handler is mortally wounded, is adopted by his handler's troubled younger brother. When he begins to suspect his older brother's death was not as he and his family had been told, he and Max start searching for answers.

Back in my theatre management days I used to constantly hear the complaint that Hollywood didn't make enough family films. Well, here's one and I'd be willing to bet it will do poorly and will leave quickly. The reason is simple enough: there isn't any real difference between a PG rated movie and your typical TV drama that's available for free (although with a plethora of obnoxious commercials). And families have learned a film like this will be on their TV sets in a relatively short time. When it gets there I think you'll enjoy it. Graham and Haden Church are known TV personalities and the rest of the cast is competent. Production values are fine and the pacing moves right along so you're never bored even though it's twenty minutes too long. If you decide you want to see it (sans commercials) I wouldn't dally, this is unlikely to be here long.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 6/26/15

MetaCritic indicates Me And Earl And The Dying Girl (74) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Ted 2 (52) and Max (43).  I saw one of these and found it acceptable but not outstanding. For national 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 6/26/15

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.

Max [PG] 1 hr. 51 min. Family adventure Watch Preview Cast: Lauren Graham, Thomas Haden Church, Jay Hernandez, Robbie Amell, Josh Wiggins, Luke Kleintank, Miles Mussenden, Dejon LaQuake. Plot: a precision-trained military dog, whose handler is mortally wounded, is adopted by his handler's troubled younger brother. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

Me And Earl And The Dying Girl [PG-13] 1 hr. 44 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Connie Britton, Molly Shannon, Nick Offerman, Jon Bernthal, Bobb'E J. Thompson, Olivia Cooke, Thomas Mann, Ronald Cyler II. Plot: about a high school senior (Thomas Mann) who is trying to blend in anonymously, avoiding deeper relationships, until he begins spending time with a girl diagnosed with cancer. Showing at: Warren East.

Ted 2 [R] 1 hr. 59 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Liam Neeson, Morgan Freeman, Mark Wahlberg, Dennis Haysbert, Amanda Seyfried, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane, Jessica Barth. Plot: Ted and Tami-Lynn want to have a baby, but first Ted will have to prove he's a person in a court of law. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 6/25/15

Movie Machine - San Andreas
Palace West - Spongebog Movie: Out Of Water, Get Hard
Warren East 13th - Far From The Madding Crowd, Aloha, Pitch Perfect 2
Warren West 21st - Aloha, Tomorrowland
Warren Old Town - Entourage, Mad Max: Fury Road, Jurassic World 3D

Worthwhile (or not) 6/19/15

MetaCritic indicates Inside Out (93) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Dope (71).  Those are good numbers so if either sounds appealing you should be good to go. Neither appealed to me (perhaps I'm a little old for either) so I won't be reviewing anything this week. For national 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 6/19/15

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.

Dope [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Kimberly Elise, Forest Whitaker, Zoe Kravitz, Blake Anderson, Tony Revolori, Shameik Moore, Kiersey Clemons. Plot: a chance invitation to an underground party leads a student into an adventure that could allow him to go from being a geek, to being dope, to ultimately being himself. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Inside Out [PG] 1 hr. 42 min. Animated Film Watch Preview Voices: Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, Mindy Kaling, Phyllis Smith, Diane Lane, Kyle MacLachlan. Plot: the film takes us to the most extraordinary location of all – inside the mind of an 11-year-old named Riley. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 6/18/15

Movie Machine - Insidious Chapter 3
Palace West - Paddington, American Sniper, Longest Ride
Warren East 13th - Insidious Chapter 3, Age Of Adaline, Poltergeist, Entourage
Warren West 21st - Entourage, Insidious Chapter 3, Where Hope Grows, Poltergiest
Warren Old Town - nothing

Jurassic World ***

Colin Trevorrow directed this Sci-Fi adventure. Watch Preview. Cast: Bryce Dallas Howard, Judy Greer, Chris Pratt, Ty Simpkins, Jake Johnson, Nick Robinson, Irrfan Khan, Vincent D'Onofrio, BD Wong, Omar Sy, Katie McGrath, Lauren Lapkus, Andy Buckley. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of science-fiction violence and peril. Running time is two hours and four minutes.

A new sci-fi terror adventure set 22 years after the horrific events of the original "Jurassic Park." The park management decides they need a new attraction and engineer a hybrid dinosaur that's far too smart...so smart it can escape its 'inescapable' pen.

If you haven't seen the earlier versions, this should prove entertaining. If you have seen the earlier versions, other than a different cast and one new dinosaur, there isn't much difference. I feel the earlier versions were more tense and perhaps scarier while the latest version is lacking much tension but features a lot more chompin'. CGI is good this time around but it wasn't bad the first times. The cast is fine with Pratt and Howard taking care of business nicely. D'Onofrio has the villain part down pat and it's just a matter of waiting to see how long it takes for him to get what he deserves. I was surprised this wasn't in 'scope but perhaps IMAX is supposed to take care of that. I watched the 2D version and didn't feel a bit deprived.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen is going to provide more action impact. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 6/12/15

MetaCritic indicates Love & Mercy (80) is the top ranking film this week, followed by I'll See You In My Dreams (75) and Jurassic World (58).  I saw one of these and found it pretty much as expected. For national 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 6/12/15

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.

I'll See You In My Dreams [PG-13] 1 hr. 36 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Blythe Danner, Mary Kay Place, Martin Starr, Sam Elliot, June Squibb, Reid Scott, Malik Akerman, Rheal Perlman. Plot: a widow in her 70s is forced to confront her fears about love, family, and death and decides to start dating again. Showing at: Warren East.

Jurassic World 2D/3D/IMAX 3D [PG-13] 2 hrs. 4 min. Sci-Fi adventure Watch Preview Cast: Bryce Dallas Howard, Judy Greer, Chris Pratt, Ty Simpkins, Jake Johnson, Nick Robinson, Irrfan Khan, Vincent D'Onofrio, BD Wong, Omar Sy, Katie McGrath, Lauren Lapkus, Andy Buckley. Plot: a new sci-fi terror adventure set 22 years after the horrific events of the original "Jurassic Park." Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Love & Mercy [PG-13] 2 hrs.. Biographical Drama Watch Preview Cast: John Cusack, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti, Elizabeth Banks. Plot: biographical film about musician and songwriter Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 6/11/15

Movie Machine - Tomorrowland, Pitch Perfect 2
Palace West - nothing
Warren East 13th - Poltergeist, Hot Pursuit, Woman In Gold, San Andreas 3D
Warren West 21st - Hot Pursuit, Tomorrowland, San Andreas IMAX 3D
Warren Old Town - Aloha, Pitch Perfect 2

Spy ***

Paul Feig wrote and directed this Action Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne, Jason Statham, Jude Law, Miranda Hart, Peter Serafinowicz, Allison Janney, Bobby Cannavale, Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. Rated R for language throughout, violence, and some sexual content including brief graphic nudity. Running time is two hours.

An unassuming, deskbound CIA analyst (McCarthy) volunteers to go deep undercover to infiltrate the world of a deadly arms dealer, and prevent a global disaster, after she sees her field partner (Law) killed by a Russian heiress (Byrne).

There are several laughs in this James Bond spoof but they could have made it better and a half hour shorter by cutting back on the profanity. Younger crowds seem to fine profanity funny but older patrons are likely to find it annoying unless used sparingly. McCarthy is more likeable in this film than she has been her last couple of features. The rest of the cast are very good and Statham shows a flair for humor I haven't noticed before. There are several brief foreign location scenes that are enjoyable although the visits aren't that long. If you're looking for some summer humor you won't find this film far off the mark, and if this does as well as I suspect it will, a sequel in a couple of years won't be surprising.

There is one funny scene after all the credits that is worth waiting for. Screen size is relatively unimportant although this will be funnier with a large audience.

Worthwhile (or not) 6/3, 5/15

MetaCritic indicates Spy (74) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Insidious: Chapter  3 (51) and Entourage (38).  I saw one of these and found it funny but overly crude. For national 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 6/3, 5/15

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Wednesday 6/3/15

Entourage [R] 1 hr. 44 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Jeremy Piven, Kevin Dillon, Jerry Ferrara, Kevin Connolly, Adrian Grenier, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Haley Joel Osment, Billy Bob Thornton, Rex Lee, Perrey Reeves, Emily Ratajkowski, Rhys Coiro, Nora Dunn, Debi Mazar, Constance Zimmer, Ronda Rousey, Scott 'Kid Cudi' Mescudi. Plot: the big-screen version of the award-winning hit HBO series. A movie star (Adrian Grenier) and his boys navigate the capricious and often cutthroat world of Hollywood. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Friday 6/5/15

Insidious Chapter 3 [PG-13] 1 hr. 37 min. Horror/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Lin Shaye, Stefanie Scott, Dermot Mulroney, Leigh Whannell, Angus Sampson, Hayley Kiyoko. Plot: this prequel reveals how a gifted psychic (Lin Shaye) reluctantly agrees to use her ability to contact the dead in order to help a teenage girl (Stefanie Scott) who has been targeted by a dangerous supernatural entity. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

Spy [R] 2 hrs. Action Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne, Jason Statham, Jude Law, Miranda Hart, Peter Serafinowicz, Allison Janney, Bobby Cannavale, Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. Plot: an unassuming, deskbound CIA analyst (McCarthy) volunteers to go deep undercover to infiltrate the world of a deadly arms dealer, and prevent a global disaster. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 6/4/15

Movie Machine - Poltergeist, Avengers: Age Of Ultron
Palace West - Unfriended, Little Boy, Do You Believe, McFarland USA, Kingsman
Warren East 13th - Furious 7, Ex Machina, Home, Paul Blart 2
Warren West 21st - Age Of Adeline, Home, Tomorrowland IMAX, Furious 7, San Andreas 3D
Warren Old Town - Tomorrowland, Poltergeist, San Andreas 3D

San Andreas ***

Brad Peyton directed this Action Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Alexandra Daddario, Carla Gugino, Colton Haynes, Dwayne Johnson, Ioan Gruffudd, Kylie Minogue, Paul Giamatti, Hugo Johnstone-Burt. Rated PG-13 for intense disaster action and mayhem throughout, and brief strong language. Running time is one hour and fifty-four minutes.

After a magnitude 9 earthquake hits California, a search and rescue helicopter pilot (Dwayne Johnson) and his estranged wife (Carla Gugino) attempt to save their only daughter (Alexandra Daddario).

While this is pretty much an "all destruction/all the time" film it does manage to add a few romantic and family scenes to break up the devastation. The clear star is the CGI effects which are very impressive and realistic. The three leads are believable and the rest of the cast is also good. It was nice seeing actors I've been watching in other series (Gruffudd and Johnstone-Burt) and seeing how effective they were in a different series. Daddario is a real standout and looks to have a promising career ahead of her. I could have done without the opening sequence which added a few unnecessary minutes but nothing of plot importance to the show, but the pacing and action of the film never really let it drag. Men will enjoy the action and there's enough romance and family drama to keep the women in the audience relatively happy. Even though there are many deaths, none of them are particularly messy. This was filmed in 3D and I saw the IMAX 3D version, which was some of the best and most effective 3D I've seen, although the film does not take up the full IMAX screen.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. For maximum visual impact you want to see this on the largest possible screen. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.

Aloha **½

Cameron Crowe wrote and directed this Comedy/Romance. Watch Preview. Cast: Alec Baldwin, Bill Murray, Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, John Krasinski, Rachel McAdams. Rated PG-13 for some language including suggestive comments. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.

A military contractor (Bradley Cooper) returns to the site of his greatest career triumphs in Hawaii – and reconnects with a long-ago love (Rachel McAdams) while unexpectedly falling for the hard-charging Air Force watchdog (Emma Stone) assigned to him.

Those looking for a laugh-fest will be somewhat disappointed with this film but find it enjoyable nonetheless.  It's hard to go wrong with such a personable group of actors, but this plot doesn't do them any favors, as it throws logic out the window and goes for emotional manipulation instead. As much as I like Emma Stone (and I liked her here), her character doesn't really suit her personality. The plot seems filled with scenes that don't really add anything to the story, with all the Hawaiian spirit mumbo jumbo heading the list. The final scene is clearly a contrived one designed to elicit tears, but it makes no logical sense whatever. However, I did find the wordless scene between Cooper and Krasinski both innovative and amusing. All that being said, if you ignore the plot contrivances, the personalities of these actors are capable of providing you with a pleasant couple of hours.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 5/29/15

MetaCritic indicates San Andreas (42) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Aloha (39).  I saw both of these and found them more enjoyable than the MetaCritic numbers indicate. For national 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 5/29/15

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.

Aloha [PG-13] 1 hr. 45 min. Comedy/Romance Watch Preview Cast: Alec Baldwin, Bill Murray, Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, John Krasinski, Rachel McAdams. Plot: a celebrated military contractor (Bradley Cooper) returns to the site of his greatest career triumphs in Hawaii – and reconnects with a long-ago love (Rachel McAdams) while unexpectedly falling for the hard-charging Air Force watchdog (Emma Stone) assigned to him. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
 
San Andreas [PG-13] 2D/3D/IMAX 3D 1 hr. 54 min. Action Drama Watch Preview Cast: Alexandra Daddario, Carla Gugino, Colton Haynes, Dwayne Johnson, Ioan Gruffudd, Kylie Minogue, Paul Giamatti. Plot: after a magnitude 9 earthquake in California, a search and rescue helicopter pilot (Dwayne Johnson) and his estranged wife (Carla Gugino) attempt to save their only daughter (Alexandra Daddario). Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 5/28/15

Movie Machine - Mad Max: Fury Road
Palace West - It Follows
Warren East 13th - Poltergeist 3D, Mad Max: Fury Road 3D
Warren West 21st - Paul Blart 2, Poltergeist 3D, Mad Max: Fury Road 3D
Warren Old Town - nothing

Tomorrowland **½

Brad Bird co-wrote and directed this Sci-fi Family film. Watch Preview. Cast: George Clooney, Judy Greer, Tim McGraw, Hugh Laurie, Kathryn Hahn, Thomas Robinson, Britt Robertson, Raffey Cassidy, Keegan-Michael Key. Rated PG for sequences of sci-fi action violence and peril, thematic elements, and language. Running time is two hours and ten minutes.

A former boy-genius (Clooney), and a bright, optimistic teen (Britt Robertson)  embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space known only as "Tomorrowland" after being recruited by a young girl (Raffey Cassidy).

Families will enjoy this film far more than will sci-fi fans as its emphasis is far more on relationships than it is on futuristic adventure. It's a nice looking picture but perhaps a bit long and slowly paced, especially for the younger crowd. Clooney does well in his role and Robertson (The Dome) does equally well. For me, however, the standout was young Cassidy, who looks to have a bright future in films (this is her third) if she so chooses. Fans of Kathryn Hahn will have trouble recognizing her with both her appearance and voice being substantially altered. It was nice to see Laurie again as the leader of the futuristic community. Conservative families will probably not appreciate the fact that global warming and its dire consequences are featured prominently, and the blame for those consequences are directed at global businesses. I saw this in IMAX, and while it was a full screen picture, I think any large screen presentation will be just as effective.

There are no further scenes once the final credits begin. The few futuristic scenes will be better on a large screen. Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 5/22/15

MetaCritic indicates Far From The Madding Crowd (71) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Tomorrowland (60) and Poltergeist (51).  I saw one of these and found it acceptable for families but of limited interest for anyone else. For national 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 5/22/15

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.

Far From The Madding Crowd [PG-13] 2 hrs. 22 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Michael Sheen, Juno Temple, Tom Sturridge, Carey Mulligan, Matthias Schoenaerts. Plot: based on the literary classic by Thomas Hardy, the story of independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who attracts three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching willfulness; Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge), a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), a prosperous and mature bachelor. Showing at: Warren East.

Poltergeist 2D/3D [PG-13] 1 hr. 33 min. Horror Drama Watch Preview Cast: Sam Rockwell, Jared Harris, Rosemarie DeWitt, Saxon Sharbino, Jane Adams. Plot: classic tale about a family whose suburban home is haunted by evil forces who escalate their attacks and hold the youngest daughter captive. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
 
Tomorrowland 2D/IMAX 2D [PG]  2 hrs. 10 min. Sci-fi Drama Watch Preview Cast: George Clooney, Judy Greer, Tim McGraw, Hugh Laurie, Kathryn Hahn, Thomas Robinson, Britt Robertson, Raffey Cassidy, Keegan-Michael Key. Plot: a former boy-genius (Clooney), and a bright, optimistic teen (Britt Robertson)  embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space known only as "Tomorrowland." Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 5/21/15

Movie Machine - Hot Pursuit, Paul Blart 2
Palace West - Run All Night, Lazarus Effect
Warren East 13th - Wild Tales, Cinderella, Get Hard, Insurgent, Longest Ride, Avengers 2 3D
Warren West 21st - Water Diviner, Longest Ride, Unfriended, Get Hard, Avengers 2 IMAX
Warren Old Town - Hot Pursuit, Mad Max: Fury Road 3D

Pitch Perfect 2 **½

Elizabeth Banks directed this Musical/Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Brittany Snow, Anna Kendrick, Katey Sagal, Anna Camp, Rebel Wilson, Alexis Knapp, Adam DeVine, Hailee Steinfeld, Ester Dean, Kelley Jakle, Hana Mae Lee, John Michael Higgins, Elizabeth Banks. Rated PG-13 for innuendo and language. Running time is one hour and fifty-five minutes.

The Barden Bellas are back, but in trouble after an unfortunate onstage mishap by Rebel Wilson. In an attempt to redeem their reputation, they enter an international competition no American group has ever won.

I think director Banks has tried to reach too wide an audience with this pic. The music numbers are great and should be appreciated by all ages. But the humor, well, that's something else again. A lot of it is the raunchy/smutty variety that younger audiences will find funny but will be cringe inducing for older patrons. And some of the asides I personally found amusing I suspect will go right over the heads of the younger crowd. Perhaps some find Rebel Wilson humorous, but I personally don't, so I thought she took up too much screen time. Kendrick is fine as usual although a little more in the background than in the previous version. Steinfeld is a nice addition and acquits herself well. The comments between Higgins and Banks throughout the film are very funny and will be most appreciated by adult patrons.

There is some extra footage during the first part of the credits, but nothing important. Screen size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Mad Max: Fury Road ***½

George Miller co-wrote and directed this Sci-Fi Action Film. Watch Preview. Cast: Charlize Theron, Megan Gale, Tom Hardy, John Howard, Nathan Jones, Nicholas Hoult, Zoe Kravitz, Richard Carter, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Riley Keough, Abbey Lee Kershaw, Courtney Eaton, Josh Helman, Jennifer Hagan, iOTA , Angus Sampson, Joy Smithers, Gillian Jones, Melissa Jaffer, Melita Jurisic. Rated R for intense sequences of violence throughout, and for disturbing images. Running time is two hours.

Max (Tom Hardy) becomes swept up with a group fleeing across the Wasteland from the Warlord in a War Rig driven by an elite Imperator, Furiosa (Charlize Theron). He joins with her and together they battle the Warlord and his army as well as a couple of other armies in an attempt to start a new home with plentiful water.

The action starts right from the beginning and just never lets up in this bleak, futuristic sci-fi film. The underlying plot didn't make a lot of sense to me (how do they get all these vehicles, gasoline, tires, etc.) but the non-stop action more than makes up for the lack of a reasonable plot. This is really Theron's film as she has a lot more to do than does Hardy. I don't know how much of the action was CGI but it all looked very realistic and never detracted from the forward momentum. Trivia fans may want to check out one of the maidens who happens to be Elvis Presley's oldest granddaughter. I saw the 3D version and found the image acceptable if not outstanding. This was was not shot in the process but was converted later into 3D . Frankly, I don't think it added a lot. The pacing was excellent and even at two hours the film didn't feel too long. During the film you really begin to like and care about some of the characters which is definitely unusual in an action pic but adds to your involvement.

There are no additonal scenes once the final credits begin. To really appreciate the action you should see this on the largest screen possible. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 5/15/15

MetaCritic indicates Mad Max: Fury Road (91) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Wild Tales (77) and Pitch Perfect 2 (65). Where Hope Grows is not rated which often happens on films of this type which usually have low attendance. I saw two of these and found one entertaining and the other a very mixed bag. For national 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 5/15/15

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.

Mad Max: Fury Road [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Sci-Fi Action Film Watch Preview Cast: Charlize Theron, Megan Gale, Tom Hardy, John Howard, Nathan Jones, Nicholas Hoult, Zoe Kravitz, Richard Carter, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Riley Keough, Abbey Lee Kershaw, Courtney Eaton, Josh Helman, Jennifer Hagan, iOTA , Angus Sampson, Joy Smithers, Gillian Jones, Melissa Jaffer, Melita Jurisic. Plot: Max (Tom Hardy) becomes swept up with a group fleeing across the Wasteland from the Warlord in a War Rig driven by an elite Imperator, Furiosa (Charlize Theron).
Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Pitch Perfect 2 [PG-13] 1 hr. 55 min. Musical/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Brittany Snow, Anna Kendrick, Katey Sagal, Anna Camp, Rebel Wilson, Alexis Knapp, Adam DeVine, Hailee Steinfeld, Ester Dean, Kelley Jakle, Hana Mae Lee. Plot: the Barden Bellas are back and enter an international competition that no American group has ever won. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Where Hope Grows [PG] 1 hr. 38 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Kerr Smith, Kristoffer Polaha, Danica McKellar. Plot: a film about finding redemption through faith, hope and love. Showing at: Warren West.

Wild Tales [R] 2 hrs. 1 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Ricardo Darín, Rita Cortese, Nancy Dupláa. Plot: six short stories involving distressed people, in Spanish with English subtitles. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 5/14/15

Movie Machine - Furious 7
Palace West - Fifty Shades Of Grey
Warren East 13th - The D Train, Unfriended, Monkey Kingdom, Little Boy
Warren West 21st - Little Boy, The D Train, Cinderella, Monkey Kingdom, Insurgent, Ex Machina
Warren Old Town - Avengers 2 3D, Age Of Adaline, Furious 7

Hot Pursuit *½

Anne Fletcher directed this Action comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: John Carroll Lynch, Reese Witherspoon, Sofia Vergara, Richard T. Jones, Rob Kazinsky. Rated PG-13 for sexual content, violence, language and some drug material. Running time is one hour and twenty-seven minutes.

An uptight and by-the-book cop (Reese Witherspoon) tries to protect the sexy and outgoing widow (Sofia Vergara) of a drug boss as they race through Texas pursued by crooked cops and murderous gunmen.

Unfortunately, the only positive thing I can say about this one is it's less than an hour-and-a-half long. That strikes me as a really missed opportunity since the two leads, especially Witherspoon, are capable of much better. The fundamental problem is this is basically action only, there's no witty dialogue to savor and laugh about later. And, action only gets tiresome way earlier than the end of this film. There are  also odd plot jumps that indicate to me the director had no idea how to get from scene A to scene B. While they made the film blessedly shorter, they were disconcerting. What laughter there is you'll find in the outtakes that are shown during the first credits.

There are outtakes once the credits begin but nothing else of importance once they stop. Screen size is unimportant. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 5/8/15

MetaCritic indicates The D Train (56) is the top ranking film this week, followed distantly by Hot Pursuit (29). I saw one of these and was disappointed. For national 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 5/8/15

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 D Train [R] 1 hr. 37 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: James Marsden, Jack Black, Jeffrey Tambor, Mike White, Nat Faxon, Kathryn Hahn, Henry Zebrowski, Kyle Bornheimer, Adria Tennor, Russell Posner. Plot: a guy who's never been 'cool' (Jack Black) attempts to convince the most popular guy from his high school (Marsden) to show up with him to their class reunion. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Hot Pursuit [PG-13] 1 hr. 27 min. Action comedy Watch Preview Cast:John Carroll Lynch, Reese Witherspoon, Sofia Vergara, Richard T. Jones, Rob Kazinsky. Plot: an uptight and by-the-book cop (Reese Witherspoon) tries to protect the sexy and outgoing widow (Sofia Vergara) of a drug boss as they race through Texas pursued by crooked cops and murderous gunmen. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 5/7/15

Movie Machine - Home
Palace West - Jupiter Ascending
Warren East 13th - True Story, Kingsman
Warren West 21st - nothing
Warren Old Town - Get Hard

Avengers: Age Of Ultron **½

Joss Whedon directed this Sci-Fi Action Film. Watch Preview. Cast: Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo, Thomas Kretschmann, Jeremy Renner, Paul Bettany, Stellan Skarsgård, Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba, Cobie Smulders, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, James Spader, Elizabeth Olsen, Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action, violence and destruction, and for some suggestive comments. Running time is two hours and twenty-one minutes.

When Tony Stark (Downey Jr.) tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and Earth's Mightiest Heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye, are put to the ultimate test as the fate of the planet hangs in the balance.

I am perfectly aware it makes no difference what any reviewer has to say about this film...it will do a ton of business in any event. But most of that business will be with those under the age of 35 and more specifically, probably still in school. That crowd will enjoy this film immensely. It has a good cast, a plethora of action, and no silly plot to get in the way. The rest of us will find it mildly interesting, well done but far too long and with a plot you can sum up in one sentence: Tony Stark creates a robot that wants to kill all humanity and we're all going to die if he and the gang can't stop it. As bloated as this one felt to me, it's hard to imagine what the next one will be like as I understand it's even more bloated, to the extent it will be split into two films!. I'm sure the IMAX 3D was superlative but I saw this in the 2D version and didn't feel as if I'd missed anything.

There is one brief scene after the initial cast credits. You really need to see this on a large screen. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 5/1/15

MetaCritic indicates Avengers: Age Of Ultron (66) is the top ranking film this week, which isn't really hard since it's this week's only release. I saw it and think the younger crowd will enjoy it much more than those closer to mine. For national 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 5/1/15

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.

Avengers: Age Of Ultron 2D/3D/IMAX 3D  [PG-13] 2 hrs. 21 min. Sci-Fi Action Watch Preview Cast: Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo, Thomas Kretschmann, Jeremy Renner, Paul Bettany, Stellan Skarsgård, Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba, Cobie Smulders, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, James Spader, Elizabeth Olsen, Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Plot: when Tony Stark tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and Earth's Mightiest Heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye, are put to the ultimate test as the fate of the planet hangs in the balance. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 4/30/15

Movie Machine - Unfriended, The Longest Ride
Palace West - The Duff, Black Or White
Warren East 13th - Child 44, Danny Collins, While We're Young
Warren West 21st - Woman In Gold, Do You Believe, Water Diviner IMAX
Warren Old Town - Paul Blart 2, Unfriended, Longest Ride, Insurgent

The Age Of Adaline **½

Lee Toland Krieger directed this Romantic Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Harrison Ford, Blake Lively, Ellen Burstyn, Kathy Baker, Amanda Crew, Michiel Huisman. Rated PG-13 for a suggestive comment. Running time is one hour and fifty minutes.

After remaining 29 years old for almost 80 years, a woman (Blake Lively) meets a man who reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend with his parents (Harrison Ford and Kathy Baker) threatens to uncover the truth, she makes a decision that will change her life forever,

Here's a film directed right at the ladies. It's an interesting premise and one the film at least makes a pretense at explaining. Flashbacks are used more than I like. I find it annoying to be constantly jumping back and forth. Lively is fine in her role although I wouldn't consider her a superlative actress at this stage of her career. The rest of the cast  is fine as are the production values. Coincidence plays more of a role than it should and that made the story even less believable for me. The running time is slightly long for this plot so I found the pacing slow.

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

The Water Diviner **½

Russell Crowe directed and stars in this Adventure/Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Steve Bastoni, Russell Crowe, Olga Kurylenko, Jai Courtney, Ryan Corr, Yilmaz Erdogan, Cem Yilm. Rated R for war violence including some disturbing images. Running time is one hour and fifty-one minutes.

An Australian farmer (Crowe) travels to Istanbul after the Battle of Gallipoli to discover the fate of his missing sons, and forges a relationship with the beautiful Turkish woman (Kurylenko) who owns the hotel in which he stays.

This is a solid drama with a little something for everyone. There are brief action sequences, some very mild romantic scenes, but overall it's the story of a man who wants to take care of his family. Crowe  is fine, both as the lead and the director. The rest of the cast do fine jobs, also. Production values are good although a lot of the scenery looks distressingly like Western Kansas. I did not see this in IMAX and for the life of me can't figure out why it was released here in that format. While  this is a good film, it's certainly not an epic, so I don't see the advantage of a giant screen.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen is always nice but it's not necessary for this film. Theatre/Times. IMAX Times.

Ex Machina **½

Alex Garland wrote and directed this Science Fiction film. Watch Preview. Cast: Oscar Isaac, Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson. Rated R for graphic nudity, language, sexual references and some violence. Running time is one hour and forty-eight minutes.

A programmer (Gleeson) is chosen to evaluate the capabilities, and ultimately the consciousness, of an  A.I. (Vikander), whose intelligence proves more sophisticated––and more deceptive––than imagined.

This film has only one question, has an A.I. been created that can pass for human. The answer is obvious fairly quickly so the film is left spinning its wheels until it finally lets us know what we've known all along. The film is well done, with good production values and an above average sound track. It also features the Scandinavian ( it was filmed in Norway) sexual mores, thus the above average amount of female skin. Those looking for a well made sci-fi film won't be too disappointed, but they aren't going to be leaving the theatre with a head full of futuristic visions.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 4/24/15

MetaCritic indicates Ex Machina (78) is the top ranking film this week, followed by a tie between The Water Diviner (51) and  The Age Of Adaline (51), and in last place, Little Boy (29). I saw three of these this week and all are acceptable, although for substantially different audiences. For national 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 4/24/15

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 Age Of Adaline  [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Romantic Drama Watch Preview Cast: Harrison Ford, Blake Lively, Ellen Burstyn, Kathy Baker, Amanda Crew, Michiel Huisman. Plot: after remaining 29 years old for almost 80 years, a woman (Blake Lively) meets a man who reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend with his parents (Harrison Ford and Kathy Baker) threatens to uncover the truth, she makes a decision that will change her life forever. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Ex Machina [R] 1 hr. 46 min. Science Fiction Watch Preview Cast: Oscar Isaac, Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson. Plot: a programmer (Gleeson) is chosen to evaluate the capabilities, and ultimately the consciousness, of an  A.I. (Vikander), whose intelligence proves more sophisticated––and more deceptive––than imagined. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Little Boy [PG-13]  1 hr. 40 min. War drama Watch Preview Cast: Tom Wilkinson, Ted Levine, Abraham Benrubi, Kevin James, Ben Chaplin, Emily Watson, Toby Huss, Michael Rapaport, Ali Landry, David Henrie, Cary-Horoyuki Tagawa, Kelly Greyson. Plot: about a little boy who is willing to do whatever it takes to bring his dad home from World War II alive. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

The Water Diviner [PG-13] 2D/IMAX 2D 1 hr. 50 min. Adventure/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Steve Bastoni, Russell Crowe, Olga Kurylenko, Jai Courtney, Ryan Corr, Yilmaz Erdogan, Cem Yilm. Plot: an Australian farmer (Crowe) travels to Istanbul after the Battle of Gallipoli to discover the fate of his missing sons, and forges a relationship with the beautiful Turkish woman (Kurylenko) who owns the hotel in which he stays. Showing at: Warren West.

Leaving 4/23/15

Movie Machine - nothing
Palace West - The Gunman, Big Hero 6
Warren East 13th - nothing
Warren West 21st - Kingsman, It Follows
Warren Old Town - Insurgent

Worthwhile (or not) 4/17/15

MetaCritic indicates Monkey Kingdom (70) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Unfriended (62), True Story (51), and Child 44 (42). Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 didn't receive enough reviews to get a rating although the two I read indicated it is terrible. I couldn't get excited about any of these this week so I've seen nothing new. For national 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 4/17/15

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.

Child 44 [R] 2 hrs. 17 min. Suspense Drama Watch Preview Cast: Gary Oldman, Tom Hardy, Vincent Cassel, Paddy Considine , Jason Clarke, Noomi Rapace, Joel Kinnaman. Plot: a Russian secret police agent (Tom Hardy) and his wife (Noomi Rapace) join forces with a General (Gary Oldman) to track down a serial killer who preys on young boys. Showing at: Warren East.

Monkey Kingdom [G] 1 hr. 24 min. Nature film Watch Preview Plot: spotlights the reality of a newborn monkey and its mother, struggling to survive within the competitive social hierarchy of  a group of monkeys who live in ancient ruins found deep in the jungles of South Asia. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 [PG] 1 hr. 33 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Kevin James, Neal McDonough, Shirley Knight, Raini Rodriguez. Plot: Blart (James) heads to Vegas with his teenage daughter before she heads off to college. But safety never takes a holiday and when duty calls, Blart answers. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

True Story [R] 1 hr. 39 min. Biographical Drama Watch Preview Cast: James Franco, Jonah Hill, Felicity Jones. Plot: a disgraced New York Times reporter (Jonah Hill) meets an accused killer (James Franco) who's taken on the reporter's identity, and his investigation morphs into a game of cat-and-mouse. Showing at: Warren East.

Unfriended [R] 1 hr. 20 min. Horror film Watch Preview Cast: Courtney Halverson, Jacob Wysocki, Will Peltz, Shelley Hennig, Renee Olstead, Moses Jacob Storm, Heather Sossaman. Plot: a teenager and her friends are stalked by a supernatural figure who seeks vengeance for a shaming video that led a vicious bully to kill herself. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 4/16/15

Movie Machine - Insurgent, Cinderella
Palace West - Chappie, Focus, The Imitation Game
Warren East 13th - 2nd Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, American Sniper, McFarland USA
Warren West 21st - American Sniper, Run All Night, McFarland USA
Warren Old Town - It  Follows

Worthwhile (or not) 4/10/15

MetaCritic indicates While We're Young (76) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Danny Collins (58), Woman In Gold (51), and The Longest Ride (32). I didn't watch anything this week. For national 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 4/10/15

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.

Danny Collins [R] 1 hr. 46 min. Drama/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Christopher Plummer, Jennifer Garner, Annette Bening, Bobby Cannavale, Al Pacino. Plot: when an aging 1970s rocker (Pacino) discovers a 40 year-old undelivered letter written to him by John Lennon, he decides to change course, rediscover his family, find true love and begin a second act. Showing at: Warren East.

The Longest Ride [PG-13] 2 hrs. 8 min. Romantic drama Watch Preview Cast:  Alan Alda, Jack Huston, Oona Chaplin, Britt Robertson, Scott Eastwood. Plot: based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, this film centers on the star-crossed love affair between a former champion bull rider looking to make a comeback, and Sophia, a college student about to embark upon her dream job in New York City. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

While We're Young [R] 1 hr. 34 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Naomi Watts, Ben Stiller, Amanda Seyfried, Charles Grodin, Adam Driver, Maria Dizzia, Adam Horovitz. Plot: a middle-aged couple's (Stiller and Watts) career and marriage are overturned when a disarming young couple (Driver and Seyfried) enter their lives. Showing at: Warren East.

Woman In Gold [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Katie Holmes, Daniel Brühl, Charles Dance, Helen Mirren, Tatiana Maslany. Plot: true story of one woman's (Mirren) journey to retrieve family possessions seized by the Nazis, among them Klimt's famous painting 'The Lady in Gold'. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 4/9/15

Movie Machine - Get Hard
Palace West - Selma, Unfinished Business, Night At The Museum, Into The Woods
Warren East 13th - Run All Night, Focus
Warren West 21st - 2nd Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, The Gunman, Home 3D
Warren Old Town - Cinderella

Opening 4/3/15

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.

Furious 7 [PG-13] 2D/IMAX 2D 2 hrs. 17 min. Action film Watch Preview Cast: Paul Walker, Jason Statham, Lucas Black, Tyrese Gibson, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Vin Diesel, Djimon Hounsou, Kurt Russell, Tony Jaa, Dwayne Johnson, Nathalie Emmanuel, John Brotherton, Iggy Azaela. Plot: continuing the global exploits in the series built on speed, Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 4/2/15

Movie Machine - Spongebob Movie, Run All Night
Palace West - Penguins Of Madagascar, Wedding Ringer
Warren East 13th - Still Alice, The Duff, Spongebob Movie, Chappie, The Gunman, Insurgent 3D, Home 3D
Warren West 21st - The Duff, Lazarus Effect, Chappie, The Gunman, Insurgent IMAX 3D, Home 3D
Warren Old Town - The Gunman, Run All Night, Insurgent 3D

Get Hard *

Etan Cohen directed this Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Will Ferrell, Craig T. Nelson, Kevin Hart, Tip "T.I." Harris, Alison Brie. Rated R for pervasive crude and sexual content and language, some graphic nudity, and drug material. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.

A millionaire hedge fund manager (Will Ferrell), nailed for fraud and bound for a stretch in San Quentin,  turns to a man whom he assumes is an ex-con (Kevin Hart) to prep him for a life behind bars.

There's a funny premise in this film that's completely botched with an idiotic plot and a dependency on bad language for humor. The average adult will be bored silly by this although teen/twenties patrons will probably find the continual use of profanity amusing. The only intelligent character in this plot is Hart although he manages to dim that effect by non-stop talking. There are also two completely gratuitous scenes of a flaccid penis whose inclusion I can only assume is meant to be a funny contrast to the title. That's the level we're talking about, folks. There's no way I would recommend this to anyone.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Screen size is unimportant, but the smaller the better in my opinion! Theatres/Times.   

Worthwhile (or not) 3/27/15

MetaCritic indicates It Follows (82) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Home (52), and Get Hard (33). I saw one of these and was sorry I wasted the time. For national 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 3/27/15

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.

Get Hard [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Will Ferrell, Craig T. Nelson, Kevin Hart, Tip "T.I." Harris, Alison Brie. Plot: a millionaire hedge fund manager (Will Ferrell), nailed for fraud and bound for a stretch in San Quentin,  turns to a man whom he assumes is an ex-con (Kevin Hart) to prep him for a life behind bars. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
 
Home 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 33 min. Animated Sci-Fi Watch Preview Voices: Jim Parsons, Rihanna, Steve Martin, Jennifer Lopez, Matt Jones, Brian Stepanek, April M. Lawrence, Stephen Kearin, Brian Stepanek, Lisa Stewart, April Winchell. Plot: when Earth is taken over by an alien race in search of a new place to call home, one resourceful girl (Rihanna), manages to avoid capture and finds herself the accidental accomplice of a banished alien (Jim Parsons). Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

It Follows [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Horror film Watch Preview Cast: Keir Gilchrist, Maika Monroe, Daniel Zovatto, Jake Weary, Olivia Luccardi, Lili Sepe. Plot: a 19-year-old (Monroe), after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter, can't shake the sensation that someone, or something, is following her. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 3/26/15

Movie Machine - Lazarus Effect, Chappie
Palace West - Blackhat, Boy Next Door, Project Almanac, Mockingjay Pt. 1
Warren East 13th - Imitation Game, Lazarus Effect, 50 Shades Of Grey
Warren West 21st - Focus, 50 Shades Of Grey, Spongebob Movie
Warren Old Town - 50 Shades Of Grey, Unfinished Business, Chappie

Divergent: Insurgent **½

Robert Schwentke directed this Sci-Fi Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Naomi Watts, Kate Winslet, Maggie Q, Ray Stevenson, Mekhi Phifer, Zoe Kravitz, Jai Courtney, Miles Teller, Octavia Spencer, Theo James, Shailene Woodley, Jonny Weston, Daniel Dae Kim, Ansel Elgort, Emjay Anthony, Rosa Salazar, Suki Waterhouse, Keiynan Lonsdale. Rated PG-13 for intense violence and action throughout, some sensuality, thematic elements and brief language. Running time is one hour and fifty-nine minutes.

Tris (Woodley) and Four (James), now fugitives on the run, search for allies and answers in the ruins of a futuristic Chicago.

As I've mentioned previously, I'm a fan of sci-fi. For some reason, though, this series just isn't doing it for me. It has a very good cast and terrific production values, including some of the most impressive CG effects I've seen. But, the story is on the dull/slow side and the whole premise seems implausible. I understand teen girls love this series and as a consequence it's going to do well at the boxoffice, but this is pretty dull stuff for the rest of us. I saw this in IMAX 3D and it was very good, as usual, although this isn't an IMAX production so the full screen height isn't used.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen will make you appreciate the CG effects to the fullest extent. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.

The Gunman **

Pierre Morel directed this Action/Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Ray Winstone, Jasmine Trinca, Javier Bardem, Sean Penn, Idris Elba, Mark Rylance. Rated R for strong violence, language and some sexuality. Running time is one hour and fifty-five minutes.

An international operative (Penn) is betrayed by the organization he worked for, and must go on the run in a relentless game of cat and mouse across Europe.

My basic problem with this film is Sean Penn. I understand he's a good actor, but I feel absolutely no rapport with his screen persona. As a result, I don't care what happens to him in the film and that makes for a slog of a movie. He's also smoking in virtually every scene and I found that unnecessary. It's clearly obvious this is an European production (perhaps that's the reason for all the smoking) since the majority of the cast is unknown to Americans, although they all seem quite competent. The foreign scenery is nice, though. The plot is a little murky and it takes most of the film before you completely understand what's going on. This isn't a bad film, its just that it isn't at all memorable. This won't be around long so you'd better hurry if you're a Penn fan.

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

Worthwhile (or not)

MetaCritic indicates Divergent: Insurgent (43) is the top ranking film this week, followed by The Gunman (38).  Do You Believe (NR) has yet to receive any reviews. I saw two of these and was not overly impressed with either. For national 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 3/20/2015

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.

Divergent: Insurgent [PG-13 2D/3D/IMAX 3D 1 hr. 59 min. Sci-Fi Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Naomi Watts, Kate Winslet, Maggie Q, Ray Stevenson, Mekhi Phifer, Zoe Kravitz, Jai Courtney, Miles Teller, Octavia Spencer, Theo James, Shailene Woodley, Jonny Weston, Daniel Dae Kim, Ansel Elgort, Emjay Anthony, Rosa Salazar, Suki Waterhouse, Keiynan Lonsdale. Plot: Tris (Woodley) and Four (James), now fugitives on the run, search for allies and answers in the ruins of a futuristic Chicago. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Do You Believe [PG-13] 1 hr. 59 min. Religious Drama Watch Preview Cast: Sean Astin, Mira Sorvino, Madison Pettis, Lee Majors, Cybill Shepherd, Alexa PenaVega, Ted McGinley, Andrea Logan White, Brian Bosworth. Plot: a local pastor is shaken by the visible faith of an old street-corner preacher, and is reminded that true belief always requires action. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

The Gunman [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Action/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Ray Winstone, Jasmine Trinca, Javier Bardem, Sean Penn, Idris Elba, Mark Rylance. Plot: an international operative (Penn) is betrayed by the organization he worked for, and must go on the run in a relentless game of cat and mouse across Europe. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 3/19/15

Movie Machine - nothing
Palace West - Strange Magic
Warren East 13th - Paddington, Jupiter Ascending, Unfinished Business
Warren West 21st - Paddington, Black Or White, Unfinished Business, Cinderella IMAX
Warren Old Town - Focus, American Sniper

Run All Night ***

Jaume Collet-Serra directed this Action Film. Watch Preview. Cast: Liam Neeson, Nick Nolte, Ed Harris, Vincent D'Onofrio, Joel Kinnaman, Patricia Kalember, Genesis Rodriguez, Boyd Holbrook. Rated R for strong violence, language including sexual references, and some drug use. Running time is one hour and fifty-four minutes.

A down-and-out mob hitman (Neeson) has one night to figure out exactly where his loyalties lie, mob or family, and see if he can finally make things right.

Right from the start you should understand this will never win any awards and most women will really dislike it. But, if you're looking for a gritty, mob film with plenty of action and a fair amount of bloodshed, this is it. The pacing is good so things never get boring. And, this is a terrific cast for a film of this type. It took me awhile to recognize Nolte behind the beard but Neeson, Harris and D'Onofrio are not only recognizable but very good. I haven't seen Kinnaman since TV's The Killing, but he also does well with his part. There's a lot of violence but considering the group it's for, that's a good thing.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 3/13/15

MetaCritic indicates Cinderella (68) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Run All Night (58).  I saw one of these and apparently liked it much better than the national critics did. For national 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.