Tuesday, April 30, 2019
The Intruder
A young married couple, Scott & Annie (Michael Ealy & Meagan Good) begin to regret their multi-million dollar Napa Valley dream house purchase from widower Charlie Peck (Dennis Quaid), who has a deep dark secret. It turns out that good old Charlie is bat-shit crazy & is overly obsessed with his beloved home & can’t seem to part from it. This is pretty much a cookie-cutter stalker-in-the-house plot where no one seems to realize what a dangerous loon they are dealing with until it’s too late. It’s B-list acting in a simplistic plot with a deliciously charming/creepy performance by Quaid. His facial expressions light up the screen. If you like this genre, then you may enjoy this film.
Alien gives it 2½ “Foxgloves” stars out of 4.
A young married couple, Scott & Annie (Michael Ealy & Meagan Good) begin to regret their multi-million dollar Napa Valley dream house purchase from widower Charlie Peck (Dennis Quaid), who has a deep dark secret. It turns out that good old Charlie is bat-shit crazy & is overly obsessed with his beloved home & can’t seem to part from it. This is pretty much a cookie-cutter stalker-in-the-house plot where no one seems to realize what a dangerous loon they are dealing with until it’s too late. It’s B-list acting in a simplistic plot with a deliciously charming/creepy performance by Quaid. His facial expressions light up the screen. If you like this genre, then you may enjoy this film.
Alien gives it 2½ “Foxgloves” stars out of 4.
Monday, April 29, 2019
El Chicano
LAPD Detective Diego Hernandez (Raul Castillo) assumes the persona a local legendary ghetto grim reaper, El Chicano, when his badge can’t find him justice in his latest career making case. A string of killings tied to the Mexican drug cartel forces Diego into extreme vigilante mode. Think Batman in the Barrio with the Punisher tendencies. This fairly predictable plot plods along in some spots before it gets down to the good stuff. George Lopez plays Captain Gomez, Diego’s boss. The complete cast & production crew of this film is nearly all Latin. A heavy handed hint towards a possible sequel will club you over the head at the conclusion.
Alien gives it 3 “growing up East Los” stars out of 4.
LAPD Detective Diego Hernandez (Raul Castillo) assumes the persona a local legendary ghetto grim reaper, El Chicano, when his badge can’t find him justice in his latest career making case. A string of killings tied to the Mexican drug cartel forces Diego into extreme vigilante mode. Think Batman in the Barrio with the Punisher tendencies. This fairly predictable plot plods along in some spots before it gets down to the good stuff. George Lopez plays Captain Gomez, Diego’s boss. The complete cast & production crew of this film is nearly all Latin. A heavy handed hint towards a possible sequel will club you over the head at the conclusion.
Alien gives it 3 “growing up East Los” stars out of 4.
Thursday, April 25, 2019
Avengers: Endgame
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
Oh, Snap! Is it “Back to the Future” meets “Déja Vu” as the Avengers try to rewrite their history?
The surviving Avengers are defeated & dejected after half the universe turns to dust. Follow the emotions of these heroes as they try to cope & figure out how to undo their unthinkable predicament. After 10 years plus of Marvel magic, this is a fitting conclusion for this MCU phase. This film is fun, funny, sad, & has its iconic moments. It is more personal as it attempts to go out with a bang. Robert Downy Jr, Chris Evans, & Scarlett Johansson give notable performances. See how our favorite superheroes deal with their individual situations. The focus is on the original team as we anxiously await to see their fate & see who returns & is still standing at the end. Look to see what’s next & where Marvel may take us on the following adventures. No mid nor end of credit clips this time, just a signature conclusion.
Alien gives it 4 “Avengers Assemble!” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
Oh, Snap! Is it “Back to the Future” meets “Déja Vu” as the Avengers try to rewrite their history?
The surviving Avengers are defeated & dejected after half the universe turns to dust. Follow the emotions of these heroes as they try to cope & figure out how to undo their unthinkable predicament. After 10 years plus of Marvel magic, this is a fitting conclusion for this MCU phase. This film is fun, funny, sad, & has its iconic moments. It is more personal as it attempts to go out with a bang. Robert Downy Jr, Chris Evans, & Scarlett Johansson give notable performances. See how our favorite superheroes deal with their individual situations. The focus is on the original team as we anxiously await to see their fate & see who returns & is still standing at the end. Look to see what’s next & where Marvel may take us on the following adventures. No mid nor end of credit clips this time, just a signature conclusion.
Alien gives it 4 “Avengers Assemble!” stars out of 4.
Pokémon Detective Pikachu
When his estrange detective father goes missing, 21-year-old Tim Goodman (Justin Smith) reluctantly teams up with Pikachu, his dad’s Pokémon partner, to begin the search in this live-action/animated fantasy mystery film. Pikachu is a cute little wise-cracking creature (voiced & motion captured by Ryan Reynolds) in Ryme City where humans & Pokémons live in harmony. But there is an evil plot to destroy this friendly co-existence. Ken Watanabe & Bill Nighy have small roles. This film plays to the younger audiences, certain video gamer junkies, & those obsessed fans searching for those elusive creatures on their mobiles. Look for your favorite Pokémons & watch them demonstrate their powers.
Alien gives it 2½ “substance R” stars out of 4.
When his estrange detective father goes missing, 21-year-old Tim Goodman (Justin Smith) reluctantly teams up with Pikachu, his dad’s Pokémon partner, to begin the search in this live-action/animated fantasy mystery film. Pikachu is a cute little wise-cracking creature (voiced & motion captured by Ryan Reynolds) in Ryme City where humans & Pokémons live in harmony. But there is an evil plot to destroy this friendly co-existence. Ken Watanabe & Bill Nighy have small roles. This film plays to the younger audiences, certain video gamer junkies, & those obsessed fans searching for those elusive creatures on their mobiles. Look for your favorite Pokémons & watch them demonstrate their powers.
Alien gives it 2½ “substance R” stars out of 4.
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
Teen Spirit
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “Cinderella” meets “American Idol” when 17-year-old shy Violet Valenski (Elle Fanning), who loves music, wants to escape the drudgery of her life on the Isle of Wright. A international singing competition & an unlikely mentor propel Violet to the finals in London. But will the temptations of fame & fortune detour her from her dream? This film feels like a big stylish & trendy pop tunes video. Could this just be a promotional launching platform for Elle Fanning’s singing career?
Alien gives it 2½ “gold necklace” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “Cinderella” meets “American Idol” when 17-year-old shy Violet Valenski (Elle Fanning), who loves music, wants to escape the drudgery of her life on the Isle of Wright. A international singing competition & an unlikely mentor propel Violet to the finals in London. But will the temptations of fame & fortune detour her from her dream? This film feels like a big stylish & trendy pop tunes video. Could this just be a promotional launching platform for Elle Fanning’s singing career?
Alien gives it 2½ “gold necklace” stars out of 4.
Monday, April 22, 2019
Booksmart
Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) & Molly (Beanie Feldstein) are graduating high school academic scholars & BFFs. However, on the eve of graduation, they feel like they have missed out on 4 years of fun while they had their noses buried in their text books. They spend the night searching for THE party & their high school crushes. This best buddies coming of age comedy is expertly crafted by first time director Olivia Wilde & true to her name, it’s a wild & crazy adventure for these 2 girls trying to find themselves & proving to their classmates that they are fun. If your sense of humor favors being surprised by the unexpected, you might enjoys these girls’ wild romp through the night. Lisa Kudrow & Will Forte have bit parts as Amy’s parents. Wilde casts her hubby Jason Sudeikis as Principal Brown. Gigi is played by Billie Lourd, Carrie Fischer’s daughter. Feldstein, who plays Molly, is Jonah Hill’s sister.
Alien gives it 3 “Malala” stars out of 4.
Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) & Molly (Beanie Feldstein) are graduating high school academic scholars & BFFs. However, on the eve of graduation, they feel like they have missed out on 4 years of fun while they had their noses buried in their text books. They spend the night searching for THE party & their high school crushes. This best buddies coming of age comedy is expertly crafted by first time director Olivia Wilde & true to her name, it’s a wild & crazy adventure for these 2 girls trying to find themselves & proving to their classmates that they are fun. If your sense of humor favors being surprised by the unexpected, you might enjoys these girls’ wild romp through the night. Lisa Kudrow & Will Forte have bit parts as Amy’s parents. Wilde casts her hubby Jason Sudeikis as Principal Brown. Gigi is played by Billie Lourd, Carrie Fischer’s daughter. Feldstein, who plays Molly, is Jonah Hill’s sister.
Alien gives it 3 “Malala” stars out of 4.
Saturday, April 20, 2019
Penguins
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “March of the Penguins” Disney style. See & learn how the Adélie penguins live & survive in Antarctica. In true Disney fashion, this nature documentary singles out one particular penguin who is designated as “Steve” & follows him as he treks across the frozen ice to the nesting grounds where he will find a mate in order to start & raise a family. The film with a sense of humor is beautifully shot & fascinating to watch & learn about these wonderful creatures. The cute little waddlers face many dangers: the killer whale, the elephant seal, the polar skua, & the leopard seal. Since all of these penguins look alike in their matching tuxedos, who’s to say we are always actually following Steve but who cares. It is a marvelous editing job to tell an entertaining story from one penguin’s point of view. During the credits, see footage of the filmmakers with some penguins upstaging the shots.
Alien gives it 3½ “always running late” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “March of the Penguins” Disney style. See & learn how the Adélie penguins live & survive in Antarctica. In true Disney fashion, this nature documentary singles out one particular penguin who is designated as “Steve” & follows him as he treks across the frozen ice to the nesting grounds where he will find a mate in order to start & raise a family. The film with a sense of humor is beautifully shot & fascinating to watch & learn about these wonderful creatures. The cute little waddlers face many dangers: the killer whale, the elephant seal, the polar skua, & the leopard seal. Since all of these penguins look alike in their matching tuxedos, who’s to say we are always actually following Steve but who cares. It is a marvelous editing job to tell an entertaining story from one penguin’s point of view. During the credits, see footage of the filmmakers with some penguins upstaging the shots.
Alien gives it 3½ “always running late” stars out of 4.
Monday, April 15, 2019
The Curse of La Llorona
A Los Angeles social worker (Linda Cardellini) & her kids become threatened by the Latin American legend La Llorona, the weeping woman, when she investigates a possible child abuse/neglect case. This supernatural horror thriller captures a desperate family’s attempt to escape the ghostly clutches of evil that’s trying to snatch children. It’s hearing things that go bump in the night & straining to see thing hidden in the darkness. The family turns to mysticism as their last resort. If you like to be scared, you may have a fun time. Look for a surprise “Conjuring” cameo.
Alien gives it 3 “Curandero” stars out of 4.
A Los Angeles social worker (Linda Cardellini) & her kids become threatened by the Latin American legend La Llorona, the weeping woman, when she investigates a possible child abuse/neglect case. This supernatural horror thriller captures a desperate family’s attempt to escape the ghostly clutches of evil that’s trying to snatch children. It’s hearing things that go bump in the night & straining to see thing hidden in the darkness. The family turns to mysticism as their last resort. If you like to be scared, you may have a fun time. Look for a surprise “Conjuring” cameo.
Alien gives it 3 “Curandero” stars out of 4.
Missing Link
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
In order to join an elite gentlemen club, struggling investigator of mythical animals Sir Lionel Frost wagers a bet he can bring back of a Sasquatch creature from the Pacific Northwest. After Frost finally discovers his missing link, it leads him on another journey half way around the world to locate the lonely beast’s possible cousins. However, Frost’s rival Lord Lord Piggot-Dunceby tries to stop Frost at any cost. This stop-action animation is fun family entertainment for all, young or old. It is simply amazing what visuals can be created through this technique. There are laughs for all ages here. A brief clip in mid credits demonstrates how filmmakers how one scene was made.
Alien gives it 3 “finding home” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
In order to join an elite gentlemen club, struggling investigator of mythical animals Sir Lionel Frost wagers a bet he can bring back of a Sasquatch creature from the Pacific Northwest. After Frost finally discovers his missing link, it leads him on another journey half way around the world to locate the lonely beast’s possible cousins. However, Frost’s rival Lord Lord Piggot-Dunceby tries to stop Frost at any cost. This stop-action animation is fun family entertainment for all, young or old. It is simply amazing what visuals can be created through this technique. There are laughs for all ages here. A brief clip in mid credits demonstrates how filmmakers how one scene was made.
Alien gives it 3 “finding home” stars out of 4.
After
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
When this sheltered small town girl Tessa (Josephine Langford) heads off to a big city university, her lesbian wild-child dorm roommate’s friends try to shock Tessa with a game of Truth or Dare. Repeated chance meetings with bad-boy type Hardin (Hero Fiennes-Tiffin) sets Tessa up for a “Bella/Edward” feeling romance that will dramatically shake up her world. This coming of age story is for the incurable romantics seeking the ups & downs of an emotional roller coaster. These two main characters are perfectly casted. It’s “Twilight” without the blood drinking & sparkling in the sunshine. She is sweet, shy, & innocent. He is mysterious, dark, & brooding. The film casts more well known names like Selma Blair, Peter Galagher, & Jennifer Beals, but they have much smaller parts as parental units.
Alien gives it 3 “Pride & Prejudice” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
When this sheltered small town girl Tessa (Josephine Langford) heads off to a big city university, her lesbian wild-child dorm roommate’s friends try to shock Tessa with a game of Truth or Dare. Repeated chance meetings with bad-boy type Hardin (Hero Fiennes-Tiffin) sets Tessa up for a “Bella/Edward” feeling romance that will dramatically shake up her world. This coming of age story is for the incurable romantics seeking the ups & downs of an emotional roller coaster. These two main characters are perfectly casted. It’s “Twilight” without the blood drinking & sparkling in the sunshine. She is sweet, shy, & innocent. He is mysterious, dark, & brooding. The film casts more well known names like Selma Blair, Peter Galagher, & Jennifer Beals, but they have much smaller parts as parental units.
Alien gives it 3 “Pride & Prejudice” stars out of 4.
Sunday, April 14, 2019
Hellboy
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
This third Hellboy film is not a sequel but remake sans Ron Perlman & Guillermo del Toro. David Harbour & Neil Marshall are their replacements. Hellboy’s origin story is quickly reiterated along with some additional ancestral linage information. The main villain is the Blood Queen, Vivian Nimue (Milla Jovovich), a sorceress vanquished by King Arthur & Merlin but resurrected by a talking pig-like creature that you might expect to find in a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie. Toss in a vampire & 3 giants in the preliminary warmup bouts for Right Hand of Doom. Ian McShane plays Hellboy’s adoptive father Trevor Bruttenholm. Were-jaguar Ben Daimio (Daniel Dae Kim) & Alice Monaghan (Sasha Lane) are Big Red’s sidekicks. Thomas Hayden Church plays vigilante Lobster Johnson but I️ am not sure why this character was even necessary to be included. This film will bombard you with mind-numbing action sequences and splashes of blood & gore. I️ haven’t read any of the graphic novels nor seen any of the animated films but I loved the first 2 Hellboy films. This one was a disappointment. Still I’m hoping del Toro & Perlman will get a chance to complete their trilogy. Look for a mid credit & an end of credit clip.
Alien gives it 2 “Excalibur” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
This third Hellboy film is not a sequel but remake sans Ron Perlman & Guillermo del Toro. David Harbour & Neil Marshall are their replacements. Hellboy’s origin story is quickly reiterated along with some additional ancestral linage information. The main villain is the Blood Queen, Vivian Nimue (Milla Jovovich), a sorceress vanquished by King Arthur & Merlin but resurrected by a talking pig-like creature that you might expect to find in a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie. Toss in a vampire & 3 giants in the preliminary warmup bouts for Right Hand of Doom. Ian McShane plays Hellboy’s adoptive father Trevor Bruttenholm. Were-jaguar Ben Daimio (Daniel Dae Kim) & Alice Monaghan (Sasha Lane) are Big Red’s sidekicks. Thomas Hayden Church plays vigilante Lobster Johnson but I️ am not sure why this character was even necessary to be included. This film will bombard you with mind-numbing action sequences and splashes of blood & gore. I️ haven’t read any of the graphic novels nor seen any of the animated films but I loved the first 2 Hellboy films. This one was a disappointment. Still I’m hoping del Toro & Perlman will get a chance to complete their trilogy. Look for a mid credit & an end of credit clip.
Alien gives it 2 “Excalibur” stars out of 4.
Tuesday, April 09, 2019
Little
It’s a female version of “Big” in reverse when a rich demanding diva Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall) gets transformed to her 13-year-old self (Marsai Martin). Now, her overworked unappreciated assistant April (Issa Rae) must fill in for the overbearing boss. Thus, comedy ensues in this predictable cookie-cutter script. The film will get laughs but it’s not my sense of humor when I️ can recognize the set up & foresee the joke coming before it even gets played out. Jazz up the sets & wardrobe and maybe no one will notice there are no new fresh ideas here. It’s the fantasy tale of two ladies who learn their lessons from this magical transformation that is never really properly explained. Nothing memorable here so switch your mind off & maybe you’ll enjoy.
Alien gives it 2 “middle school bully” stars out of 4.
It’s a female version of “Big” in reverse when a rich demanding diva Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall) gets transformed to her 13-year-old self (Marsai Martin). Now, her overworked unappreciated assistant April (Issa Rae) must fill in for the overbearing boss. Thus, comedy ensues in this predictable cookie-cutter script. The film will get laughs but it’s not my sense of humor when I️ can recognize the set up & foresee the joke coming before it even gets played out. Jazz up the sets & wardrobe and maybe no one will notice there are no new fresh ideas here. It’s the fantasy tale of two ladies who learn their lessons from this magical transformation that is never really properly explained. Nothing memorable here so switch your mind off & maybe you’ll enjoy.
Alien gives it 2 “middle school bully” stars out of 4.
Sunday, April 07, 2019
The Mustang
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
A violent convict Roman Coleman (Mathias Schoenserts) serving in his 12th year of incarceration is given a chance to participate in a rehabilitation therapy program working with wild mustang horses to be broken, trained, & prepared for auction. Horse lovers may enjoy this equine handling story. Get a little insight to prison life. This is a wonderful small film comparing inmate & mustang rehabilitation. Schoenserts’ performance is terrific. Bruce Dern is perfect as the ornery old horse rancher in charge of this program. Connie Briton plays Coleman’s psychiatrist.
Alien gives this 2½ “Marcus’ future” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
A violent convict Roman Coleman (Mathias Schoenserts) serving in his 12th year of incarceration is given a chance to participate in a rehabilitation therapy program working with wild mustang horses to be broken, trained, & prepared for auction. Horse lovers may enjoy this equine handling story. Get a little insight to prison life. This is a wonderful small film comparing inmate & mustang rehabilitation. Schoenserts’ performance is terrific. Bruce Dern is perfect as the ornery old horse rancher in charge of this program. Connie Briton plays Coleman’s psychiatrist.
Alien gives this 2½ “Marcus’ future” stars out of 4.
Aftermath
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s post-war reconstruction Hamburg, Germany, when British Colonel Lewis Morgan (Jason Clarke) sends for his wife Rachel (Keira Knightley) to join him. They move into a commandeered German mansion but allow the home owner Stefan Lubert (Alexander Skarsgärd) & his daughter to remain in the attic living space. The Morgans seem to have some dark untold secret. With Lewis busy with work & being distant to his wife, Rachel becomes attracted to the handsome German widower & a passionate love affair spawns. Will Rachel leave her husband to run off with her new lover? This is a beautiful period piece with wonderful wardrobes & a marvelous mansion amongst a snowy backdrop & bombed out ruins. However, it is rather slow paced but with a couple of steamy sex scenes. This is a woman’s story about second chances.
Alien gives it 2½ “88 tattoo” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s post-war reconstruction Hamburg, Germany, when British Colonel Lewis Morgan (Jason Clarke) sends for his wife Rachel (Keira Knightley) to join him. They move into a commandeered German mansion but allow the home owner Stefan Lubert (Alexander Skarsgärd) & his daughter to remain in the attic living space. The Morgans seem to have some dark untold secret. With Lewis busy with work & being distant to his wife, Rachel becomes attracted to the handsome German widower & a passionate love affair spawns. Will Rachel leave her husband to run off with her new lover? This is a beautiful period piece with wonderful wardrobes & a marvelous mansion amongst a snowy backdrop & bombed out ruins. However, it is rather slow paced but with a couple of steamy sex scenes. This is a woman’s story about second chances.
Alien gives it 2½ “88 tattoo” stars out of 4.
Saturday, April 06, 2019
Breakthrough
When 14-year-old adopted John falls thru the ice on Lake St. Louis & is finally rescued after being submerged for 15 minutes, his chances for survival were bleak. His mom (Chrissy Metz) never gives up on him. His dad (Josh Lucas) is supportive but can’t bear to be by his son’s side. The new local pastor (Topher Grace), who tries a little too hard to be hip, is there for the family. Based on a true 2015 story, this inspirational film is a real tearjerker so bring a whole box of tissues. See how the entire community rallies together in prayer & hope for this young boy. Photos of the real characters are presented at the end of the film.
Alien gives it 3½ “faith in God” stars out of 4.
When 14-year-old adopted John falls thru the ice on Lake St. Louis & is finally rescued after being submerged for 15 minutes, his chances for survival were bleak. His mom (Chrissy Metz) never gives up on him. His dad (Josh Lucas) is supportive but can’t bear to be by his son’s side. The new local pastor (Topher Grace), who tries a little too hard to be hip, is there for the family. Based on a true 2015 story, this inspirational film is a real tearjerker so bring a whole box of tissues. See how the entire community rallies together in prayer & hope for this young boy. Photos of the real characters are presented at the end of the film.
Alien gives it 3½ “faith in God” stars out of 4.
Thursday, April 04, 2019
The Public
A bitter arctic blast lasting days forces the homeless patrons of the Cincinnati Public Library to stage a protest occupying the third floor because there are no more room in the emergency shelters. However, this nonviolent sit-in escalates into a standoff with the D.A. & local riot police while media tries to hype up the situation. This inspirational film about the plight of homeless was produced, written, directed, & starring Emilio Estevez. The outstanding supporting cast ensemble includes Alec Baldwin, Christian Slater, Gabrielle Union, Jeffery Wright, Taylor Schilling, Micheal K. Williams, & Jenna Malone. This is a thought provoking multifaceted film with a creative script & a sense of humor. It is the type of film many will overlook or avoid just because it features the homeless. But if you give it a try, you may be pleasantly surprised.
Alien gives it 3½ “The Grapes of Wrath” stars out of 4.
A bitter arctic blast lasting days forces the homeless patrons of the Cincinnati Public Library to stage a protest occupying the third floor because there are no more room in the emergency shelters. However, this nonviolent sit-in escalates into a standoff with the D.A. & local riot police while media tries to hype up the situation. This inspirational film about the plight of homeless was produced, written, directed, & starring Emilio Estevez. The outstanding supporting cast ensemble includes Alec Baldwin, Christian Slater, Gabrielle Union, Jeffery Wright, Taylor Schilling, Micheal K. Williams, & Jenna Malone. This is a thought provoking multifaceted film with a creative script & a sense of humor. It is the type of film many will overlook or avoid just because it features the homeless. But if you give it a try, you may be pleasantly surprised.
Alien gives it 3½ “The Grapes of Wrath” stars out of 4.
Wednesday, April 03, 2019
Pet Sematary
Louis (Jason Clark) relocates his wife & 2 kids from Boston to Ludlow, a rural town in Maine. His wife Rachel has a dark secret from her childhood. They meet their elderly neighbor Jud who knows something about the wooded area labeled as the Pet Sematary by the local kids. A couple of tragic incidents sets off even more horrific repercussions. This remake of the 1989 movie is based on the 1983 Stephen King novel; of which I️ have neither seen nor read. If you follow the obvious hints, the plot will play out in a predictable pattern but there will be some twists from the 2 previous sources. The film is more eerie than horror. I️ noticed only one, but true fans can search for any more possible Stephen King related Easter eggs. Who will survive this nightmare? Can any survivor be normal again after this?
Alien gives it 3 “good kitty/bad kitty” stars out of 4.
Louis (Jason Clark) relocates his wife & 2 kids from Boston to Ludlow, a rural town in Maine. His wife Rachel has a dark secret from her childhood. They meet their elderly neighbor Jud who knows something about the wooded area labeled as the Pet Sematary by the local kids. A couple of tragic incidents sets off even more horrific repercussions. This remake of the 1989 movie is based on the 1983 Stephen King novel; of which I️ have neither seen nor read. If you follow the obvious hints, the plot will play out in a predictable pattern but there will be some twists from the 2 previous sources. The film is more eerie than horror. I️ noticed only one, but true fans can search for any more possible Stephen King related Easter eggs. Who will survive this nightmare? Can any survivor be normal again after this?
Alien gives it 3 “good kitty/bad kitty” stars out of 4.
Tuesday, April 02, 2019
Shazam!
It’s “Big” meets “Superman” meets “Seven” meets “Power Rangers” when an ancient wizard (Djimon Hounsou) in a search for The Chosen One tests many, but sets 2 of the boys on 2 very different paths. Fourteen-year-old streetwise foster kid Billy Batson becomes Shazam because he is pure of heart. The other kid Thaddeus Sivana becomes obsessed & spends his adult life trying to return to the wizard for another chance to get superpowers, but he is too late. However, with help from the spirits of the Seven Deadly Sins, Sivana battles Shazam trying to steal the powers he envies. This superhero origin story is more light-hearted & humorous being that is told thru a kids point of view trying to learn about his new powers & the responsibility that goes with the territory. The film also emphasizes these sense of diversity & family. This is a fun family film. Not to be out done by Marvel, look for a mid credit clip & one at the very end.
Alien gives it 3 “verifying superpowers on film” stars out of 4.
It’s “Big” meets “Superman” meets “Seven” meets “Power Rangers” when an ancient wizard (Djimon Hounsou) in a search for The Chosen One tests many, but sets 2 of the boys on 2 very different paths. Fourteen-year-old streetwise foster kid Billy Batson becomes Shazam because he is pure of heart. The other kid Thaddeus Sivana becomes obsessed & spends his adult life trying to return to the wizard for another chance to get superpowers, but he is too late. However, with help from the spirits of the Seven Deadly Sins, Sivana battles Shazam trying to steal the powers he envies. This superhero origin story is more light-hearted & humorous being that is told thru a kids point of view trying to learn about his new powers & the responsibility that goes with the territory. The film also emphasizes these sense of diversity & family. This is a fun family film. Not to be out done by Marvel, look for a mid credit clip & one at the very end.
Alien gives it 3 “verifying superpowers on film” stars out of 4.
The Beach Bum
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released,
A stoner comedy starring Mathew McConaughey & Snoop Dog... need I️ say more? Now toss into the mix Isla Fischer, Jimmy Buffet, Zac Efron, Martin Lawrence, & Jonah Hill. Now, that’s a party! But does it make a movie? Moondog (McConaughey) is a free spirit, hedonistic, poetry writer burnout, just having fun under the warm Florida Keys sun. It is a cast of wacky characters in colorful outfits partying it up, doing drugs & alcohol, having sex, swearing, & behaving stupid. At the end of all of this craziness, you'll ask yourself, what happened? It’s the kind of film that’s probably best enjoyed if you are under the influence like the characters on the big screen.
Alien gives it 1½ “senseless silliness” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released,
A stoner comedy starring Mathew McConaughey & Snoop Dog... need I️ say more? Now toss into the mix Isla Fischer, Jimmy Buffet, Zac Efron, Martin Lawrence, & Jonah Hill. Now, that’s a party! But does it make a movie? Moondog (McConaughey) is a free spirit, hedonistic, poetry writer burnout, just having fun under the warm Florida Keys sun. It is a cast of wacky characters in colorful outfits partying it up, doing drugs & alcohol, having sex, swearing, & behaving stupid. At the end of all of this craziness, you'll ask yourself, what happened? It’s the kind of film that’s probably best enjoyed if you are under the influence like the characters on the big screen.
Alien gives it 1½ “senseless silliness” stars out of 4.
