Opening 9/25/15

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.

Everest 2D/3D expands its coverage this week after opening last week in Warren West only. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Green Inferno [R] 1 hr. 43 min. Horror/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Lorenza Izzo, Ariel Levy, Daryl Sabara, Kirby Bliss Blanton. Plot: a group of student activists travel from New York City to the Amazon to save the rainforest, but soon discover that no good deed goes unpunished. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Hotel Transylvania 2 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 33 min. Animated Comedy Watch Preview Voices: Mel Brooks, Adam Sandler, David Spade, Steve Buscemi, Kevin James, Molly Shannon, Jon Lovitz, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez, Fran Drescher, Cee-Lo Green. Plot: the Drac pack is back for an all-new monster comedy adventure. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

The Intern [PG-13] 1 hr. 52 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway, Rene Russo, Anders Holm, Adam DeVine, Andrew Rannells, Linda Lavin, Christina Scherer, Celia Weston, JoJo Kushner, Zack Pearlman, Jason Orley, Nat Wolff. Plot: a 70-year-old widower (Robert De Niro), discovering retirement isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, becomes an  intern at an online fashion site, founded and run by a young woman (Anne Hathaway). Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Learning To Drive [R] 1 hr. 29 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Ben Kingsley, Patricia Clarkson, Jake Weber, Grace Gummer. Plot: a woman (Clarkson) whose husband is leaving her decides to learn to drive (from teacher Kingsley) so she can visit her daughter (Gummer) in college. Showing at: Warren East.

Pawn Sacrifice [PG-13] 1 hr. 56 min. Biographical drama Watch Preview Cast: Tobey Maguire, Peter Sarsgaard, Liev Schreiber, Lily Rabe. Plot: chronicles Bobby Fischer's (Maguire) terrifying struggles with genius and madness, and the rise and fall of a kid from Brooklyn who captured the imagination of the world. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 9/24/15

Movie Machine - Pixels, Minions, Inside Out
Palace West -  Hitman: Agent 47, The Gift, Paper Towns, San Andreas, Spu
Warren East 13th - Trainwreck, Straight Outta Compton, Transformer Refueled, Ant-Man, No Escape, Man From U.N.C.L.E., Un Gallo Con Muchos Huevos, 90 Minutes In Heaven
Warren West 21st - No Escape, Sinister 2, Jurassic World, Transporter Refueled, Ant-Man, Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation
Warren Old Town - Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation

Black Mass ***½

Scott Cooper directed this Biographical Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Dakota Johnson, Joel Edgerton, Johnny Depp, Julianne Nicholson, Kevin Bacon. Rated R for brutal violence, language throughout, some sexual references and brief drug use. Running time is two hours and two minutes.

An FBI Agent (Joel Edgerton) persuades an Irish mobster (Johnny Depp) to collaborate with the FBI and eliminate the Italian mob.

This is Depp's film all the way and he does an exceptional job in his role as the Irish, Chicago, mobster who got the F.B.I. to look the other way as he expanded his organization. Those who follow the news closely will already be familiar with this story, which the film fleshes out with detail. I found Depp very believable as Whitey Bulger, accurately portraying him as a vicious psychopath. Edgerton is very good as his F.B.I. boyhood friend, who tried his very best to protect him. The rest of the cast is just along for the ride, even Cumberbatch who portrays Bolger's brother plays no significant role. Those who are squeamish about violence should consider passing on this one, but anyone who enjoys  well written and performed drama should consider this a must see.

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

Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials **½

Wes Ball directed this Sci-Fi Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Aidan Gillen, Dylan O'Brien, Giancarlo Esposito, Kaya Scodelario, Thomas Brodie-Sangster. Rated PG-13 for extended sequences of violence and action, some thematic elements, substance use and language. Running time is two hours and eleven minutes.

The Gladers face their greatest challenge yet: searching for clues about the mysterious and powerful organization known as WCKD. Their journey takes them to the Scorch, a desolate landscape filled with unimaginable obstacles.

There's a lot of action in this film but almost no plot progression, and to make things worse, when we finally reach the end, we're right back where we started. To compound all that, the film is unnecessarily long, making for a slow slog for those interested in a story as well as action. Production values are fine as is the cast. But other than being exposed to a new variety of zombie, I expect you'll leave the theatre feeling you've just spent two hours and gotten nothing in return.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 9/18/15

MetaCritic indicates Grandma (78) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Black Mass (68), Everest (63), Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (43), and Captive (40). I watched two of these and found one to be excellent and the other action-filled but plotless. 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 9/18/15

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.

Black Mass [R] 2 hrs. 2 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Dakota Johnson, Joel Edgerton, Johnny Depp. Plot: an FBI Agent (Joel Edgerton) persuades an Irish mobster (Johnny Depp) to collaborate with the FBI and eliminate the Italian mob. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Captive [PG-13] 1 hr. 37 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: David Oyelowo, Kate Mara, Leonor Varela, Michael K. Williams, Mimi Rogers. Plot: a single mother struggling with drug addiction is  taken hostage in her own apartment by a man on the run from the law for breaking out of jail and murdering the judge assigned to his case. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Everest 3D/IMAX 3D [PG-13] 2 hrs. 1 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Josh Brolin, Jake Gyllenhaal, Jason Clarke, Ang Phula Sherpa, Thomas M. Wright. Plot: documents the awe-inspiring journey of two different expeditions challenged beyond their limits by one of the fiercest snowstorms ever encountered by mankind. Showing at: Warren West.

Grandma [R] 1 hr. 19 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Elizabeth Peña, Judy Greer, Julia Garner, Laverne Cox, Lily Tomlin, Marcia Gay Harden, Nat Wolff. Plot: just after breaking up with her girlfriend, a woman's  (Lily Tomlin) granddaughter unexpectedly shows up needing $600 for an abortion. They spend the day trying to get their hands on the cash as their unannounced visits to old friends and flames end up rattling skeletons and digging up secrets. Showing at: Warren East.

Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials [PG-13] 2 hrs. 11 min. Sci-Fi Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Aidan Gillen, Dylan O'Brien, Giancarlo Esposito, Kaya Scodelario, Thomas Brodie-Sangster. Plot: the Gladers face their greatest challenge yet: searching for clues about the mysterious and powerful organization known as WCKD. Their journey takes them to the Scorch, a desolate landscape filled with unimaginable obstacles. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 9/17/15

Movie Machine - Transporter Refueled
Palace West -  Magic Mike XXL, Terminator Genisys
Warren East 13th - Mr. Holmes, Mistress America, Inside Out, Hitman-Agent 47. The Gift, Sinister 2
Warren West 21st - Inside Out, Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Gift, Wolf Totem IMAX
Warren Old Town - Transporter Refueled, Vacation, Man From U.N.C.L.E., No Escape

The Visit *

M. Night Shyamalan directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Kathryn Hahn, Ed Oxenbould, Deanna Dunagan, Peter McRobbie, Olivia DeJonge. Rated PG-13 for disturbing thematic material including terror, violence and some nudity, and for brief language. Running time is one hour and thirty-four minutes.

A brother (Oxenbould) and sister (DeJonge) are sent to their grandparents' remote Pennsylvania farm by their mother (Hahn) for a weeklong trip, but discover the elderly couple (Dunagan, McRobbie) are deeply disturbed, making their chances of getting back home grow smaller every day.

The burning question this film asks is, "why on earth are film companies still giving Shyamalan money to make movies?"  The cast is fine as are the production values, but there are so few thrills in this film it quickly becomes a tedious bore. Oh, there are little oddities throughout, but nothing that will keep you on the edge of your seat. There is a Shyamalan twist at the end, but by then you're so disinterested it makes no difference. About the only people I can recommend this to are those suffering from insomnia, and I'm sure there are less painful ways to solve that problem.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 9/11/15

MetaCritic indicates Wolf Totem (54) is the top ranking film this week, followed by The Visit (51), with The Perfect Guy and 90 Minutes In Heaven both being unrated (never a good sign). I watched one of these and liked it even less than did the national critics. 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 9/11/15

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.

90 Minutes In Heaven [PG-13] 2 hrs. 1 min. Religious Drama Watch Preview Cast: Hayden Christensen, Kate Bosworth, Dwight Yoakam, Michael W. Smith, Fred Dalton Thompson, Jason Kennedy, Elizabeth Hunter. Plot: a man is brought back to life after having been declared dead. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

The Perfect Guy [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Morris Chestnut, Sanaa Lathan, Michael Ealy, Kathryn Morris, Charles S. Dutton, Rutina Wesley. Plot: after a painful breakup, a woman (Sanaa Lathan) jumps into a passionate relationship with a charming stranger (Michael Ealy). When her ex-boyfriend (Morris Chestnut) resurfaces in her life she has to figure out who she should trust and who she should fear. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Visit [PG-13] 1 hr. 34 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Kathryn Hahn, Ed Oxenbould, Deanna Dunagan, Peter McRobbie, Olivia DeJonge. Plot: a brother and sister are sent to their grandparents' remote Pennsylvania farm for a weeklong trip but discover that the elderly couple is involved in something deeply disturbing, making their chances of getting back home grow smaller every day. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Wolf Totem [PG-13] IMAX Only 2 hrs. 1 min.Adventure drama Watch Preview Cast: Feng Shaofeng, Shawn Dou, Ankhnyam Ragchaa, Yin Zhuseng, Basen Zhabu. Plot: a young Beijing student is sent to live among the nomadic herdsmen of Inner Mongolia. Showing at: Warren West.

Leaving 9/10/15

Movie Machine - nothing.
Palace West -  nothing
Warren East 13th - Ricki And The Flash, Jurassic World, Pixels, Vacation, We Are Your Friends
Warren West 21st - Minions, We Are Your Friends, Hitaman-Agent 47, Transporter Refueled IMAX
Warren Old Town - Southpaw

The Transporter Refueled **

Camille Delamarre directed this Action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Ray Stevenson, Ed Skrein, Loan Chabanol, Radivoje Bukvic, Gabriella Wright, Anatole Taubman, Tatiana Pajkovic. Rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, sexual material, some language, a drug reference and thematic elements. Running time is one hour and thirty-six minutes.

A former special-ops mercenary (Ed Skrein) is engaged by a cunning femme-fatale (Loan Chabanol) and her three seductive sidekicks to orchestrate a bank heist designed to destroy their former employer.

Let's get right to the point. Ed Skrein is no Jason Statham, who starred first in this series. He isn't even in the league of Chris Vance, who plays the role in the TV series. As soon as that becomes obvious, and it doesn't take long, it's all downhill from there. The rest of the cast is fine and the scenery is interesting, but the plot is pure potboiler. There is plenty of action, so fans of that genre will be satisfied but the plot is pure manipulation, which will leave those who enjoy a good story disenchanted. This is clearly a European production and as such lacks the oomph of a major American film. Obviously, this is meant to be the first in a series, although it's not good enough to justify one. I watched the IMAX version which displays all the action nicely, but still, there's that nagging problem of a miscast lead and a dull plot.

There are no additional scenes once the credits begin. A larger screen will emphasize the action. Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

A Walk In The Woods **½

 Ken Kwapis directed this Adventure/Comedy. Watch Preview .Cast: Emma Thompson, Nick Nolte, Robert Redford, Nick Offerman, Kristen Schaal, Mary Steenburgen. Rated R for language and some sexual references. Running time is one hour and forty-four minutes.

A celebrated travel writer (Robert Redford) challenges himself to hike the Appalachian Trail, accompanied by the only person he can find willing to join him on the trek (Nick Nolte). Now they're about to find out when you push yourself to the edge, the real fun begins.

This was an unexpected, pleasant surprise. At first glance this doesn't look like it has much going for it. But Redford and Nolte are very good in their roles, the scenery is fantastic, and the music is even pleasant (for a change). The rest of the cast is only seen briefly and don't add much to the story. There are several laughs along the way along with some adventure, but basically this is about two men, past their prime, trying to push themselves to the limit. Nolte looks and sounds bad, but the years haven't diminished his acting skills and he adds a lot to the story. I don't see younger audiences flocking to this but older patrons should find this to be an enjoyable couple of hours at the movies.

There are no additional scenes after the credits begin. A large screen is preferred. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 9/4/15

MetaCritic indicates Mistress America (75) is the top ranking film this week,  followed by A Walk In The Woods (51), and The Transformer Refueled (35). The was no rating for Un Gallo Con Muchos Huevos. I watched two of these and and was in general agreement with the national critics. 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 9/2,4/15

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 9/2

A Walk In The Woods [R] 1 hr. 44 min. Adventure/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Emma Thompson, Nick Nolte, Robert Redford, Nick Offerman, Kristen Schaal, Mary Steenburgen. Plot: a celebrated travel writer (Robert Redford) challenges himself to hike the Appalachian Trail, accompanied by the only person he can find willing to join him on the trek (Nick Nolte). Now they're about to find out  when you push yourself to the edge, the real fun begins. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Friday 9/4

Inside Out [PG] 1 hr. 42 min. Animated film Disney Reissue Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East.

Mistress America [R] 1 hr. 26 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Greta Gerwig, Lola Kirke, Matthew Shear, Jasmine Cephas-Jones, Heather Lind, Michael Chernus. Plot: a lonely college freshman (Kirke) is taken in by her soon-to-be stepsister (Gerwig) and seduced by her alluringly mad schemes. Showing at: Warren East.

Southpaw [R] 2 hrs, 4 min. Sports Drama Reissue Showing at: Warren Old Town.

The Transporter Refueled 2D/IMAX 2D [PG-13] 1 hr. 36 min. Action film Watch Preview Cast: Ray Stevenson, Ed Skrein, Loan Chabanol, Radivoje Bukvic, Gabriella Wright, Anatole Taubman, Tatiana Pajkovic. Plot: a former special-ops mercenary (Ed Skrein) is engaged by a cunning femme-fatale (Loan Chabanol), and her three seductive sidekicks to orchestrate the bank heist of the century. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Un Gallo Con Muchos Huevos [PG-13] 1 hr. 28 min. Animated film Watch Preview Voices: Bruno Bichir, Maite Perroni, Omar Chaparro, Ninel Conde, Carlos Espejel.  Plot:  the egg-cellent animated (Huevo Cartoon) series finally cracks the U.S. big screen. In Spanish. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 9/1,3/15

Movie Machine - 9/1: nothing; 9/3: Hitman: Agent 47, Man From U.N.C.L.E.
Palace West -  9/1: nothing; 9/3: The Gallows, Pitch Perfect 2
Warren East 13th - 9/1: End Of Tour, Fantastic Four; 9/3: American Ultra
Warren West 21st - 9/1: Ricki And The Flash; 9/3: Fantastic Four
Warren Old Town - 9/1: nothing; 9/3: American Ultra, Hitman: Agent 47

No Escape ***

John Erick Dowdle co-wrote and directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Pierce Brosnan, Owen Wilson, Lake Bell. Rated R for strong violence including a sexual assault, and for language. Running time is one hour and forty-three minutes.

An American businessman (Wilson) and his family settle into their new home in Southeast Asia and suddenly find themselves in the middle of a violent political uprising, with only a British agent (Brosnan) to help them.

I see a lot of films categorized as thrillers but seldom do I find they actually are. This film is. You get a little lull at first to set the stage and then it's off to the races, with the American family desperately trying to keep from being killed. Wilson and Bell do a good job as the parents of two young daughters (who vary between cute and obnoxious). This was filmed on location in Thailand and feels very real. You do start to care what happens to the characters which makes the film much more involving. The plot is a little manipulative but I don't think you'll notice that much once you get involved. The R rating is well deserved but patrons looking for a well made action film will not be disappointed.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 8/26-28/15

MetaCritic indicates We Are Your Friends (46) is the top ranking film this week,  followed by No Escape (38), and War Room (34). I watched one of these and liked it better than did the national critics. War Room only has two reviews which is fairly normal for a religiously themed drama with an unknown cast. 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 8/26, 28/15

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 8/26

No Escape [R] 1 hr. 43 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Pierce Brosnan, Owen Wilson, Lake Bell. Plot: an American businessman (Wilson) and his family settle into their new home in Southeast Asia and suddenly find themselves in the middle of a violent political uprising. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Friday 8/28

We Are Your Friends [R] 1 hr. 36 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Wes Bentley, Zac Efron, Emily Ratajkowski. Plot: an aspiring 23-year-old DJ (Efron) spends his days scheming with his childhood friends and his nights working on the one track that will set the world on fire. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

War Room [PG] 2 hrs.Religious Drama Watch Preview Cast: Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, T.C. Stallings, Michael Jr., Karen Abercrombie, Alena Pitts, Beth Moore. Plot: explores the transformational role prayer plays in the lives of a family. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 8/25, 27/15

Movie Machine - 8/25: Fantastic Four; 8/27 nothing
Palace West - 8/27: Home, Tomorrowland
Warren East 13th - 8/25: Minions; 8/27: Inside Out, Southpaw, Pixels, Shaun The Sheep
Warren West 21st - 8/25: nothing; 8/27: Shaun The Sheep, MI5 IMAX, Trainwreck, Southpaw
Warren Old Town - 8/25: Trainwreck; 8/27 nothing

Hitman: Agent 47 *

Aleksander Bach directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast:  Rupert Friend, Hannah Ware, Zachary Quinto, Ciarán Hinds,Thomas Kretschmann, Jürgen Prochnow. Rated R for sequences of strong violence, and some language. Running time is one hour and thirty-six minutes.

An elite assassin (Friend), genetically engineered from conception to be the perfect killing machine, is known only by the last two digits on the barcode tattooed on the back of his neck. While he searches for a young woman (Ware), another modified agent (Quinto) from the Syndicate attempts to kill him.

I don't know whether it's because this is based on a game or because it has a definite European feel and cast (with the exception of Quinto), but I never got involved in the story. The production values are good and the location filming is interesting but none of the characters ever felt real to me. Consequently, it was impossible to really care what happened to any of them.  This is a very bloody film and the violence is about the only thing I think will appeal to those who like action movies. Gamers may want to check this out but I suspect even they will be disappointed, as will most older patrons.

There is one short additional scene after the credits begin. A large screen is preferable. Theatres/Times.

American Ultra **

Nima Nourizadeh directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Connie Britton, Jesse Eisenberg, John Leguizamo, Kristen Stewart, Topher Grace, Walton Goggins, Bill Pullman. Rated R for strong bloody violence, language throughout, drug use and some sexual content. Running time is one hour and thirty-five minutes.

A seemingly hapless and unmotivated stoner (Jesse Eisenberg) is enjoying his small-town life with his live-in girlfriend (Kristen Stewart), when his world is suddenly turned upside down. Unbeknownst to him, he is actually a highly trained, lethal sleeper agent and someone in the C.I.A. (Grace) wants to exterminate him.

This film has good production values and a very good cast but is severely hampered with a muddled and confusing plot. Because of that, you never really care for any of the characters or what happens to them. I found this film frustrating because with a crisper story and better editing it easily could have been a very good movie. The younger crowd may find this acceptable due to the cast but older patrons are very likely to be disappointed. Also, the film is being called a comedy but I sure didn't find much to laugh at and I don't think you will either.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 8/21/15

MetaCritic indicates The End Of The Tour (85) is the top ranking film this week,  followed by American Ultra (51), Sinister 2 (33), and Hitman: Agent 47 (27). I watched two of these and wasn't 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 8/21/15

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.

American Ultra [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Action/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Connie Britton, Jesse Eisenberg, John Leguizamo, Kristen Stewart. Plot: a seemingly hapless and unmotivated stoner (Jesse Eisenberg) is enjoying his small-town life with his live-in girlfriend, Phoebe (Kristen Stewart), when his world is suddenly turned upside down. Unbeknownst to him, he is actually a highly trained, lethal sleeper agent. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The End Of The Tour [R] 1 hr. 46 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Jesse Eisenberg, Joan Cusack, Jason Segel, Mamie Gummer, Anna Chlumsky, Mickey Sumner. Plot: tells the story of the five-day interview between Rolling Stone reporter (and novelist) David Lipsky (Jesse Eisenberg) and acclaimed novelist David Foster Wallace (Jason Segel), which took place right after the 1996 publication of Wallace's groundbreaking epic novel, Infinite Jest. Showing at: Warren East.

Hitman: Agent 47 [R] 1 hr. 36 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast:  Rupert Friend, Hannah Ware, Zachary Quinto. Plot: an elite assassin, genetically engineered from conception to be the perfect killing machine, is known only by the last two digits on the barcode tattooed on the back of his neck. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Sinister 2 [R] 1 hr. 37 min. Horror film Watch Preview Cast: James Ransone, Shannyn Sossamon, Robert Daniel Plot: a protective mother (Shannyn Sossamon) and her 9-year-old twin sons (Robert and Dartanian Sloan) find themselves in a rural house marked for death as an evil spirit continues to spread with frightening intensity. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 8/20/15

Movie Machine - MI5
Palace West - Vatican Tapes, Mad Max: Fiury Road, Ted 2
Warren East 13th - Paper Towns
Warren West 21st - Pixels, Jurassic World
Warren Old Town - Fantastic Four, The Gift

The Man From U.N.C.L.E. ***½

Guy Ritchie co-wrote and directed this Action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer, Alicia Vikander, Elizabeth Debicki, Jared Harris, Hugh Grant. Rated PG-13 for action violence, some suggestive content, and partial nudity. Running time is one hour and fifty-six minutes.

Centers on CIA agent Solo (Cavill) and KGB agent Kuryakin (Hammer) who are forced to put aside longstanding hostilities and team up on a joint mission to stop a mysterious international criminal organization. They are accompanied on their mission by a woman (Vikander) who may be more than she at first appears to be.

This may seem pretty tame to younger viewers but for those of us who enjoyed the 'caper' films of the early 60's, this is an enjoyable romp. I was working nights (as a theatre manager) when the original TV series ran so I have no way of comparing this film to that series. But as an action film, I found this quite enjoyable. On location scenes, a capable cast and a plot that was paced well although there were a few slow spots. Another real positive as far as I'm concerned is that it doesn't break the two hour limit, which so many of these films do these days. This film feels and looks like a 1960's film, which for me is an improvement over today's 'fast cut' editing style. The ending clearly implies there will be a sequel although this film's gross will be the real determining factor. I saw this on a regular, but large screen.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 8/14/15

MetaCritic indicates Straight Outta Compton (74) is the top ranking film this week,  followed by The Man From U.N.C.L.E. (53). I watched one of these and found it far better than did the national critics. 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 8/14/15

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 Man From U.N.C.L.E. [PG-13] 2D/IMAX 1 hr. 56 min. Action film Watch Preview Cast: Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer, Alicia Vikander, Elizabeth Debicki, Jared Harris, Hugh Grant. Plot: centers on CIA agent Solo (Cavill) and KGB agent Kuryakin (Hammer) who are forced to put aside longstanding hostilities and team up on a joint mission to stop a mysterious international criminal organization. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Straight Outta Compton [R] 2 hr. 21 min. Musical/Biography film Watch Preview Cast: Paul Giamatti, Aldis Hodge, O'Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, Neil Brown Jr.. Plot: follows the meteoric rise and fall of N.W.A., and tells the astonishing story of how these youngsters revolutionized music and pop culture the moment they told the world the truth about life in the hood. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 8/13/15

Movie Machine - Vacation
Palace West - I'll See You In My Dreams
Warren East 13th - Irrational Man
Warren West 21st - Paper Towns
Warren Old Town - Southpaw

Films To Consider In August

The Week—Summer Movie Guide: All The Films You Should See In August

Fantastic Four **

Josh Trank directed this Sci-Fi Action Film. Watch Preview. Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Miles Teller, Kate Mara, Jamie Bell, Toby Kebbell, Tim Blake Nelson, Reg E. Cathey. Rated PG-13 for sci-fi action violence, and language. Running time is one hour and forty-minutes.

Four young outsiders teleport to an alternate and dangerous universe, which alters their physical form in shocking ways. Their lives irrevocably upended, the team must learn to harness their daunting new abilities and work together to save Earth from a former friend turned enemy.

Yet another Marvel comic film. These all tend to look pretty much the same to me but I know the real audience for these are the teen/twenty crowd. The story is a little slow with no real action starting for at least forty-five minutes. CG effects are fine although they're not used as much as in some of the other Marvel films. I was interested in seeing Tulsa native, Nelson, who usually is cast as the village idiot in a somewhat serious role. He was acceptable if not completely believable. Teller and Mara are the best known actors and they're fine in their less than demanding roles. Older patrons should give this a pass and stay out of the way of the younger crowd who will no doubt be there in droves.

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

The Gift **

Joel Edgerton wrote and directed this Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Jason Bateman, Joel Edgerton, Rebecca Hall. Rated R for language. Running time is one hour and forty-eight minutes.

After a series of uninvited encounters and mysterious gifts prove troubling, a secret from the past is uncovered after more than 20 years.

I have no idea why this is classified as a thriller. There are a couple of 'scream' scenes included but that doesn't make a film a thriller in my book. The story is fine although you should have figured out the ending half way through the film. The cast is also fine although they don't have much to work with. As far as I'm concerned this is a run-of-the mill drama, not exceptional enough to warrant a visit to the theatre. It gets a half star higher rating than I feel it deserves because my wife liked it...so it must have something going for it.

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

Ricki And The Flash *½

Jonathan Demme directed this Comedy/Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Kevin Kline, Meryl Streep, Sebastian Stan, Mamie Gummer, Audra McDonald, Rick Springfield. Rated PG - 13 for thematic material, brief drug content, sexuality and language. Running time is one hour and forty-one minutes.

A guitar heroine who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom returns home to make things right with her family.

If you're interested in seeing what a poor story can do to a first rate cast, here's your chance. Streep is a fantastic actress but she's sadly lacking when it comes to performing rock 'n roll, and that's all this film basically is. The plot is threadbare, the character interaction is limited and unbelievable, and the rock music is uncomfortably loud. The only reason to see this is if you're determined to see everything Streep (or Springfield, Kline or Gummer) is in. I did have to wonder what McDonald (she has a glorious voice) thought about being cast in a musical in a speaking role only. I also had to wonder why anyone thought this was a comedy...it sure didn't make me laugh!

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

Worthwhile (or not) 8/7/15

MetaCritic indicates Shaun The Sheep (81) is the top ranking film this week,  followed by The Gift (78), a tie between Irrational Man (54) snd Ricki And The Flash (54) and Fantastic Four (27) in last place. I watched three of these and find myself is real disagreement with the national critics. 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 8/7/15

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 8/5

Shaun The Sheep [PG]  1 hr. 26 min. Animated film Watch Preview Voices: Justin Fletcher, John Sparkes, Omid Djalili, Kate Harbour, Tim Hands, Andy Nyman, Simon Greenall, Emma Tate. Plot: when Shaun decides to take the day off and have some fun, he gets a little more action than he bargained for. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Friday 8/7

Fantastic Four [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Sci-Fi Action Film Watch Preview Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Miles Teller, Kate Mara, Jamie Bell, Toby Kebbell, Tim Blake Nelson, Reg E. Cathey. Plot: four young outsiders teleport to an alternate and dangerous universe, which alters their physical form in shocking ways. Their lives irrevocably upended, the team must learn to harness their daunting new abilities and work together to save Earth from a former friend turned enemy. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Gift [R] 1 hr. 48 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Jason Bateman, Joel Edgerton, Rebecca Hall. Plot: after a series of uninvited encounters and mysterious gifts prove troubling, a horrifying secret from the past is uncovered after more than 20 years. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Irrational Man [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Parker Posey, Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Stone, Jamie Blackley. Plot: the latest Woody Allen film is about a tormented philosophy professor who finds a will to live when he commits an existential act. Showing at: Warren East.

Ricki And The Flash [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Kevin Kline, Meryl Streep, Sebastian Stan, Mamie Gummer, Audra McDonald, Rick Springfield. Plot: a guitar heroine who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom returns home to make things right with her family. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 8/6/15

Movie Machine - Paper Towns
Palace West - Young & Prodigous T.S. Spivet, Furious 7, Self/Less, Paul Blart 2
Warren East 13th - Vatican Tapes, Terminator Genisys (8/4), Pixels 3D, Spy
Warren West 21st - Spy (8/4), Magic Mike XXL, Pixels 3D
Warren Old Town - Pixels, Ant-Man

Mission Impossible - Rogue Nation ***

Christopher McQuarrie wrote and directed this Action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Jeremy Renner, Rebecca Ferguson, Alec Baldwin, Ving Rhames, Sean Harris, Simon McBurney, Tom Hollander. Rated PG-13 for sequences of action and violence, and brief partial nudity. Running time is two hours and eleven minutes.

Ethan (Cruise) and team (Pegg, Renner, Rhames) take on their most impossible mission yet, eradicating the Syndicate – an International rogue organization committed to destroying the IMF. Aiding them, perhaps, is a disavowed British agent (Ferguson) and hindering them is the head of the C.I.A. (Baldwin).

Fans of the previous four Mission Impossible films should be well pleased with this rendition. Production values are high, the cast is very good and there is plenty of action along with a reasonably intelligent plot. Many of the scenes were shot on foreign locations which gives it an international flair. Swedish actress, Ferguson, adds a nice touch and blends seamlessly with the rest of the cast. My only real complaint (and the reason it only gets *** instead of ***½) is that it's too long for a film that is basically non-stop action. By the time I reached the end of the film I was worn out! But the pacing was so well done I never felt the need to look at my watch. The soundtrack was a pleasant surprise for me, containing a snippet of a Beethoven symphony and several snippets of a Puccini opera. I watched this in IMAX although this wasn't filmed in that process so the picture doesn't quite fill the top and bottom of the screen. For summer action entertainment, this is almost as good as it gets.

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

Vacation *½

John Francis Daley, Jonathan M. Goldstein co-wrote and co-directed this Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Leslie Mann, Beverly D'Angelo, Skyler Gisondo, Steele Stebbins, Chris Hemsworth, Chevy Chase. Rated R for crude and sexual content and language throughout, and brief graphic nudity. Running time is one hour and thirty-nine minutes.

A grown-up Rusty Griswold (Ed Helms) surprises his wife, Debbie (Christina Applegate), and their two sons with a cross-country trip back to America’s “favorite family fun park,” Walley World.

I enjoyed the original 1983 Vacation but this current rendition completely misses the mark. It's yet another film that thinks crude behavior and constant profanity are all you need to have a comedy. For teens that may work. But most adults are going to get weary of that long before this film ends. Compound that with the fact the cast is unappealing. Rusty appears to be truly clueless, his wife evidently was the campus slut before they were married and the youngest son has a mouth on him that would make a longshoreman blush. And it appears to run in the family, as Rusty's sister is married to an egomaniac who likes to strut around with his genitalia on display.  On the positive side, this mess is only a little over an hour and a half long so you won't have wasted too much time if you decide to go. There are a couple of laugh-out-loud visual scenes but they are not capable of compensating for the lack of a reasonable plot or intelligent dialogue.

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

Worthwhile (or not) 7/31/15

MetaCritic indicates Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation (75) is the top ranking film this week,  followed by Vacation (33). I watched both of these and found found one very entertaining and the other easily forgettable. 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 7/29, 31/15

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 7/29 

Vacation [R]  1 hr. 39 min Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Leslie Mann, Beverly D'Angelo, Skyler Gisondo, Steele Stebbins, Chris Hemsworth, Chevy Chase. Plot: a grown-up Rusty Griswold (Ed Helms) surprises his wife, Debbie (Christina Applegate), and their two sons with a cross-country trip back to America’s “favorite family fun park,” Walley World. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Friday 7/31

Mission Impossible - Rogue Nation [PG-13] 2 hrs. 11 min. Action film Watch Preview Cast: Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Jeremy Renner, Rebecca Ferguson, Alec Baldwin, Ving Rhames, Sean Harris, Simon McBurney, Tom Hollander. Plot: Ethan (Cruise) and team take on their most impossible mission yet, eradicating the Syndicate – an International rogue organization committed to destroying the IMF. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 7/30/15

Movie Machine - Ant-Man, Trainwreck
Palace West - Aloha
Warren East 13th - Magic Mike XXL, The Gallows, Ant-Man 3D
Warren West 21st - The Gallows, Terminator Genisys, Ant-Man IMAX
Warren Old Town - Jurassic World, Magic Mike XXL, Pixels 3D, Ant-Man 3D

Paper Towns **½

Jake Schreier directed this Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Nat Wolff, Halston Sage, Austin Abrams, Cara Delevingne, Justice Smith. Rated PG-13 for some language, drinking, sexuality and partial nudity - all involving teens. Running time is one hour and forty-nine minutes.

Centers on Quentin (Wolff) and his enigmatic neighbor Margo (Delevingne), who loves mysteries so much she becomes one. Based on the best-selling novel.

This a teen oriented coming of age film which basically focuses on three high school seniors who know they'll be soon parting ways and are sad about that. One of them thinks constantly about a neighbor girl and when she invites him to be her getaway driver while she gets revenge on some fellow students, he agrees. When she disappears the next day, he starts looking for her, soon accompanied by his friends , convinced she's left clues as to her whereabouts.  Sp far, so good. But, this is a film where the trip greatly overshadows the destination. For me, at least, the end of the film wasn't worth the time it took to get there. Teenagers may well feel differently but I'm guessing adults are not going to put this on their hit list. Production values are good as are the cast members, but none of them have achieved stardom (well, perhaps Delevingne, as a model) although that's certainly a possibility. I wouldn't wait too long to see this if you're so inclined.

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

Worthwhile (or not)

MetaCritic indicates Paper Towns (57) is the top ranking film this week, closely followed by Southpaw (56), The Vatican Tapes (43) and Pixels (27). I watched one of these and found it mildly entertaining. 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 7/24/15

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.

Paper Towns [PG-13] 1 hr. 49 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Nat Wolff, Halston Sage, Austin Abrams, Cara Delevingne, Justice Smith. Plot: centers on Quentin (Wolff) and his enigmatic neighbor Margo (Delevingne), who loves mysteries so much she becomes one. Based on the best-selling novel. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

Pixels [PG-13] 2D/3D 1 hr. 39 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Adam Sandler, Brian Cox, Kevin James, Michelle Monaghan, Peter Dinklage, Josh Gad. Plot: when aliens misinterpret video-feeds of classic arcade games as a declaration of war against them, they attack Earth. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Southpaw [R] 2 hrs. 4 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Forest Whitaker, Rachel McAdams, Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Clare Foley, Miguel Gomez, Victor Ortiz, Rita Ora, Naomie Harris. Plot: a boxer enters the hardest battle of his life as he struggles with redemption and to win back the trust of those he loves. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Vatican Tapes [PG-13] 1 hr. 31 min. Horror film Watch Preview Cast: Olivia Taylor Dudley, Michael Pena, Dougray Scott, Djimon Hounsou. Plot: when the Vatican is called upon to exorcise a demon, the possession proves to be an ancient satanic force more powerful than ever imagined. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 7/23/15

Movie Machine - Inside Out, Jurassic World
Palace West - Entourage, Insidious Chapter 3, Cinderella, Hot Pursuit
Warren East 13th - Max, Ted 2, I'll See You In My Dreams, San Andreas, Self/Less, Amy, Minions 3D
Warren West 21st - Self/Less, Minions 3D
Warren Old Town - The Gallows, Ted 2

Worthwhile (or not) 7/17/15

MetaCritic indicates Amy (85) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Trainwreck (75), Mr. Holmes (67) and Ant-Man (64). Had a pulled muscle that made it impossible to get around so there's no review(s) 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 7/17/15

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.

Amy [R] 2 hrs. 8 min. Documentary Watch Preview Cast: Amy Winehouse. Plot: the incredible story of six-time Grammy-winner Amy Winehouse – in her own words.  Showing at: Warren East.

Ant-Man [PG-13] 2D/3D/IMAX 3D 1 hr. 57 min. Sci-Fi Action Film Watch Preview Cast: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Michael Pena, Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll, David Dastmalchian, T.I. , Judy Greer, Bobby Cannavale, Martin Donovan, Wood Harris, John Slattery, Gregg Turkington, Abby Ryder Fortson, David Dastmalchian. Plot: master thief Scott Lang must embrace his inner hero and help his mentor protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Mr. Holmes [PG] 1 hr. 45min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Frances de la Tour, Ian McKellen, Laura Linney, Hiroyuki Sanada, Roger Allam, Hattie Morahan, Patrick Kennedy, Philip Davis, Milo Parker. Plot: Holmes faces the end of his days tending to his bees, revisiting the circumstances of the unsolved case that forced him into retirement. Showing at: Warren East.

Trainwreck [R] 2 hrs. 4 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast:Amy Schumer, Bill Hader, Brie Larson, Mike Birbiglia, Colin Quinn, Tilda Swinton, Ezra Miller, John Cena, Vanessa Bayer, Jon Glaser, LeBron James, Method Man. Plot: a commitment-averse woman trys to get past her self-sabotaging ways. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 7-16/15

Movie Machine - Terminator Genisys, Max
Palace West - Woman In Gold
Warren East 13th - Faith Of Our Fathers, Avengers: Age  Of Ultron, Terminator Genisys 3D
Warren West 21st - Faith Of Our Fathers, San Andreas, Terminator Genisys IMAX 3D
Warren Old Town - Terminator Genisys, Spy

Worthwhile (or not) 7/10/15

MetaCritic indicates Minions (56) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Self/Less (35), and The Gallows (30) None of these appealed to me this week so there will be no reviews. 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 7/10/15

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.

The Gallows [R] 1 hr. 25 min. Horror film Watch Preview Cast: Cassidy Gifford, Ryan Shoos, Reese Mishler, Pfeifer Brown. Plot: students at a small town school resurrect the stage production in which the lead actor died in a misguided attempt to honor the anniversary of the tragedy—but ultimately find out some things are better left alone. Showing at: Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Minions [PG] 2D/3D 1 hr. 31 min. Family Animated Film Watch Preview Voices: Michael Keaton, Steve Coogan, Allison Janney, Sandra Bullock, Jon Hamm. Plot: a trio of minions embark upon a thrilling journey to find their next potential master, Scarlet Overkill (Sandra Bullock), the world's first-ever female super-villain. Showing at: Movie Machine, Warren East, Warren West.

Self/Less [PG-13] 1 hr. 57 min. Sci-fi Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Ben Kingsley, Derek Luke, Victor Garber, Matthew Goode, Natalie Martinez, Michelle Dockery. Plot: an extremely wealthy man (Ben Kingsley), dying from cancer, undergoes a radical medical procedure that transfers his consciousness into the body of a healthy young man (Ryan Reynolds). Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 7/9/15

Movie Machine - Ted 2
Palace West - The Age Of Adeline
Warren East 13th - Love And Mercy, Dope, Mad Max: Fury Road, Me And Earl And The Dying Girl
Warren West 21st - Pitch Perfect 2, Insidious Chapter 3
Warren Old Town - Terminator Genisys 3D

Terminator Genisys ***

Alan Taylor directed this Sci-Fi Action film. 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. Rated PG - 13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and gunplay throughout, partial nudity and brief strong language. Running time is two hours and five minutes.

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.

The biggest problem this film has is that 'fractured timeline' thing. Perhaps if you had a few hours and a spreadsheet you could figure it all out but my advice is to just ignore it and go along for the ride. Just assume nothing is quite what it seems and you'll be fine. Action fans will find all they want. There's almost no romance involved but Clarke's character does provide a strong female presence. Speaking of her, it was nice to see her without her blonde wig and dragons and she was perfectly capable in her role. Schwarzenegger was a pleasant surprise in that he wasn't his usual one dimensional self and actually made me laugh out loud a couple of times. The rest of the cast is fine although Simmons was basically wasted in his bit part. The pacing is good so the film never seems to drag. While the rating talks about partial nudity, it's so partial as to be meaningless in my opinion. I saw this in IMAX 3D and the 3D was very good, as usual.

There is a film sequence in the middle of the credits that changes the original ending just a bit. A large screen is required for maximum action impact. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 7/1/15

MetaCritic indicates Magic Mike XXL (59) is the top ranking film this week, followed by Terminator Genisys (39). Faith Of Our Fathers (0) doesn't have enough reviews to get a rating but the one review it has thought it was poor.  I saw one of these and found it more entertaining than did the national critics. 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 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