Wiener-Dog

Director Todd Solondz

Genre Comedy

Cast Charlie Tahan, Greta Gerwig, Zosia Mamet, Danny DeVito

Rating R

Release Date June 24th, 2016

“A dachshund passes from oddball owner to oddball owner, whose radically dysfunctional lives are all impacted by the pooch.”

Wiener-Dog is a dark comedy directed by Todd Solondz, whom previously directed Happiness, Storytelling, and Dark Horse. The film is considered a comedy drama but falls more in the category of dark comedy. Wiener-Dog stars Keaton Nigel Cooke, Tracy Letts, Greta Gerwig, and Kieran Culkin (brother of Mr. Home Alone himself Macauley Culkin).

Director Todd Solondz must have stock in Zoloft and other antidepressant medications because after watching his latest film Wiener-Dog, you will need something with clinical strength to uplift your mood. I was warned that in order to enjoy the film you must have the ability to appreciate Solondz dark sense of humor and "unique" style as it relates to filmmaking. Much to my surprise, this proved to be a task I was unprepared for. I'm not sure what I expected the film to be like but this was far from anything I thought it would be. It was overly depressing, dry, and held a feeling of hopelessness throughout (thankfully it is only an hour and 30 minutes). If they decided to create a genre of film that was the opposite of coming-of-age, Wiener-Dog would fit right in. I am unfamiliar with any of Solondz previous work but I feel pretty good about skipping anything he has made in the past or anything he releases in the future. Do me a favor and look the guy up on IMDb, the look on his face in his profile picture screams "point me in the direction of the nearest building so that I can nose dive from the roof." I wish I was kidding. Actually I looked through a few more of his photos and this guy makes me feel very uncomfortable. 

I can't bash on the acting in Wiener-Dog because it was solid and by far the highlight of the film. The problem with that is the fact that the actors play such depressing roles you find it impossible to invest in any of them. You feel bad for them, which speaks to how effective the performances are. The film plays out in somewhat of a chapter format which seemingly tells various short stories, some of which are connected and others that aren’t at all. Danny DeVito is phenomenal as usual and I also really enjoyed the chemistry between Greta Gerwig and Kieran Culkin. If I was rating the acting alone I would say it deserves at least a B, maybe even a B+. 

The bottom line is simple, Wiener-Dog is very much an acquired taste somewhere along the lines of black licorice or Moxie (both if which I despise, especially black licorice), meaning that fans of the film will most likely be few and far between. I actually have a very high tolerance for films that stray from what we would consider normal or acceptable in society, but believe it or not I do have a line, and although it is rarely crossed, clearly it is possible. I would suggest avoiding this one unless you feel the need to walk around for a week with drooped shoulders and a very bleak outlook on life. After I finished it, I had no choice but to watch 2 ½ episodes of Spongebob Squarepants just to lighten my mood and allow myself a few hours of light unadulterated sleep.

Blair Witch

Director Adam Wingard

Genre Horror | Thriller

Cast James Allen McCune, Callie Hernandez, Corbin Reid, Brandon Scott

Rating R

Release Date September 16th, 2016

“After discovering a video showing what he believes to be his vanished sister Heather, James and a group of friends head to the forest believed to be inhabited by the Blair Witch.”

Blair Witch is a found footage style horror film directed by Adam Wingard, the man behind V/H/S 1 & 2, You’re Next, and The Guest. Although many of his films have remained fairly under the radar, he has proven a knack for producing quality horror films. It was entitled The Woods originally, and the fact that it would be a 3rd Blair Witch film wasn’t announced until only 2 months prior to release. In an effort to protect its secrecy the film was filmed in Vancouver, Canada as opposed to Burkittsville, Maryland where the original was filmed. According to IMDb, Blair Witch was in the filming process for over 5 years before anyone knew it was actually happening.

Blair Witch attempts to revitalize a sleeper hit that released nearly two decades ago, and although certain aspects of the film do make an impact, the final product falls short of expectations. Let’s face it, this film was fighting an uphill battle from the beginning. The 1999 film was a fresh idea and caught audiences by surprise, serving up many sleepless nights for those brave enough to see it in theaters.  The idea of a found footage film was simply unheard of, and because of that it felt incredibly authentic and therefore truly frightening. Fast forward to 2016 and audiences are essentially numb to the effects at this point. You really need a fresh idea in order to make it work, and I’m not sure many of those are still out there. Blair Witch does put its best foot forward, providing quality acting, and overall a very solid and sequel worthy premise. It just really isn’t all that scary, and needless to say when it comes to a horror movie, that is an issue.

The acting in Blair Witch was surprisingly good, all things considered. I mean generally horror films can skate by with average to below average acting, especially when it comes to found footage style films (The Gallows anyone?!). The two primary leads include James Allen McCune and Callie Hernandez. McCune previously held recurring roles on AMC’s The Walking Dead as well as the hit Showtime series Shameless.  Hernandez on the other hand is relatively unknown but seems to be getting more work now according to her IMDb page. Both played solid and convincing roles and most importantly keep the audience from shaking their heads at the Achilles heel of horror films, which is terrible acting. Kudos to them.

Blair Witch serves as a more than worthy sequel to the 1999 money printing machine of a film, and should at the very least erase the joke of an actual sequel that preceded it. It includes effective cinematography, above average acting (at least for a horror film), as well as a creepy and unpredictable feel throughout. Although I slept like a baby after I saw the Blair Witch, it could very well keep you up for a week. I feel like Adam Wingard's newest film is still worth checking out for horror fans, and considering all of the mixed reviews out there, you might as well try and make your own opinion this time around. 

Don't Breathe

Director Fede Alvarez

Genre Horror | Thriller

Cast Daniel Zovatto, Dylan Minnette, Jane Levy, Stephen Lang

Rating R

Release Date August 26th, 2016

“A trio of reckless thieves breaks into the house of a wealthy blind man, thinking they’ll get away with the perfect heist. They’re wrong.”

Don’t Breathe is an original thriller directed and co-written by Fede Alvarez, the man behind 2013’s Evil Dead. Originally called A Man in the Dark, the title Don’t Breathe wasn’t announced until its premiere at the SXSW film festival in 2016. The film stars Stephen Lang, Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, and Daniel Zovatto.

Don’t Breathe is a tense white-knuckle thriller that will surely satisfy genre fans and anyone seeking a unique premise with an edge. After first viewing the trailer I categorized the film as sharing similarities with the Netflix original film Hush. Instead of a deaf girl living in the woods as the victim who proves to be much more resourceful than expected, Don’t Breathe introduces the audience to a blind military vet who starts as a victim and quickly develops into much, much more. The film is well-written and expertly acted, delivering a dark and gritty environment as immersive as it is unpredictable. The film’s biggest fault in my opinion is the overall believability of the premise, but at the end of the day, who can honestly disprove whether or not the events that unfold could actually take place? Granted the story is fiction, and is far from claiming that it is based on actual events, but still the strength and effectiveness of the film very well may live and die by the viewers ability to buy in. Far-fetched or not, I was certainly on the edge of my seat.

As I mentioned previously, Don’t Breathe benefits from top-notch acting that deserves to be recognized. We are first introduced to the characters played by Jane Levy (Shameless, Evil Dead) and Dylan Minnette (Prisoners, Goosebumps), and both plays their respective roles quite well. Levy and Minnette are tasked with playing characters with a fair amount of backstory, especially Levy, and they deliver believable and chemistry-driven performances. On the other end of the spectrum, veteran actor Stephen Lang delivers a chillingly effective performance as the blind man seemingly protecting his home and his belongings. Levy’s character quickly sheds its skin and reveals a dark side, made believable by his talent as an actor and ability to truly immerse himself into a role. With over 113 acting credits to his resume according to IMDb, Lang is most memorable to me for his role in 2009’s blockbuster film, Avatar. His role as Colonel Miles Quaritch really set the tone for the film and added a level of balance to the high-level CGI the film employed. Lang’s IMDb page shows that he is in pre-production for Avatar 2, 3, and 4, set to release in 2018, 2020, and 2022. Titanic director James Cameron loves his money.

Don’t Breathe accomplishes many things, most of which is the films ability to feel fresh and unique among a variety of disappointing 2016 releases. Although it really isn’t a horror film, it will still appeal to fans of the struggling genre. Regardless of the predisposed notions you may or may not have, Don’t Breathe brings enough to the table to warrant a trip to the theater and maybe even a Blu-ray purchase down the road. Recommended.

Hell or High Water

Director David Mackenzie

Genre Crime | Drama

Cast Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Jeff Bridges, Katy Mixon

Rating R

Release Date August 12th, 2016

“A divorced dad and his ex-con brother resort to a desperate scheme in order to save their family’s farm in West Texas.”

Hell or High Water is directed by David Mackenzie, his next project after directing 2013’s sleeper hit, Starred Up. The film is written by Taylor Sheridan who also wrote 2015’s cartel drama Sicario, his very first writing credit. As an actor just now transitioning into writing, fans of the FX series Sons of Anarchy would recognize him as Deputy Chief, David Hale. The crime drama has a very impressive cast including Chris Pine, Ben Foster, and Jeff Bridges.

Hell or High Water, a gritty heist drama set in West Texas, will leave a lasting impression and is easily one of the best films of 2016. It combines beautiful cinematography, incredible acting, and a uniquely engaging story. The film’s script serves as a character study of sorts, providing audiences an in-depth view of both sides of the law. The chemistry between Chris Pine and Ben Foster quickly develops into a bond only brothers could share, leaving little doubt as far as what they are willing to do for each other. The West Texas setting is absolutely picturesque considering the premise and overall message of the film. Director David Mackenzie and writer Taylor Sheridan (Sicario) click on another level and truly bring the story to life. I also really enjoyed the attention to detail shown by Mackenzie, with an accurate and often times very bleak portrayal of West Texas and its economic issues.

With Hell or High Water it's difficult to narrow down the greatest strength of the film, but acting is undoubtedly near the top of that list. The cast is absolutely incredible and I can't picture anyone else doing a better job. Ben Foster is a very talented actor but is easily the least known out of the leads in the film. He built a reputation as a loose cannon starting with Alpha Dog, right on through 3:10 to Yuma where he starred alongside Russel Crowe, and The Mechanic where he tussled with Jason Statham. Ain't Them Bodies Saints was an under the radar gem of his that truly showcased his skills. Foster is a fantastic actor and understands how to develop a character. The other two lead actors need no introduction, Chris Pine and Jeff Bridges. Pine and Bridges find themselves on opposite sides of the law but the two actors provide the perfect balance and undoubtedly bring out the best in each other.

Hell or High Water is one heck of an experience and should not be missed. I can’t wait to see it a second time so that I can really appreciate some of the smaller details I may have missed. Rarely does a film effectively deliver all aspects of great filmmaking, but when they do, the end result is something special. Audiences may be relatively in the dark as of right now when it comes to this little known gem, but come award season, Hell or High Water will be on everyone's radar. Highly recommended.

War Dogs

Director Todd Phillips

Genre Comedy | Drama

Cast Jonah Hill, Miles Teller, Ana de Armas, Jeff Pierre

Rating R

Release Date August 19th, 2016

“Based on the true story of two young men, David Packouz and Efraim Diveroli, who won a $300 million contract from the Pentagon to arm America’s allies in Afghanistan.”

Originally titled Arms and the Dudes, War Dogs is a comedy/drama based on real-life events. The film is directed by The Hangover director Todd Phillips, and serves as his first non-Hangover film since 2010’s Due Date. This is also his first drama. War Dogs stars Miles Teller, Jonah Hill, Ana De Armas, and Bradley Cooper. The film’s release has been met with a bit of controversy as the real life Efraim Diveroli (played by Jonah Hill) is suing pretty much everyone attached to the film for what he considers unauthorized use of his story. Sure buddy, good luck with that.

War Dogs is a uniquely inspired comedy drama that feels like a mix between Lord of War, The Wolf of Wall Street, and The Big Short. I really enjoyed the overall experience and felt that the film met my high expectations, which was no easy task. War Dogs is very much a comedy and the laughs come early and often, with both leads pulling their weight. I found myself laughing at scenes with little to no dialogue which made me feel a bit ridiculous, I suppose that is a good sign. The story is absolutely insane but somehow doesn’t feel far-fetched (it is based on actual events, so maybe that’s why?). My only real issue with the film would be the slower pace of the 2nd half compared to the hilarious and lively first half. I can’t complain too much considering we had to have a conclusion to the story, but the ride was so much damn fun.

I expected above average acting for War Dogs and the final product certainly delivered. Jonah Hill and Miles Teller have incredible chemistry together, making for a very successful yet unconventional bond. I am a huge fan of both actors and felt like they did a phenomenal job keeping the audience entertained and most importantly making sure the film was far from boring. Interestingly enough, Jonah Hill gained quite a bit of weight after losing 40lbs prior to his role in 22 Jump Street. It seemed he was putting on the weight for this role but come to find out the man he portrayed in the film is very much of average size. Very odd. The only thing that makes sense to me is the fact that Hill was more or less ridiculed by people saying that he was funnier when he was fat. Well he is certainly fat once again, and to be quite honest he does seem to be funnier as well.

War Dogs is a highly entertaining film that simply has a lot of good things going for it. Generally big-budget Hollywood films based on actual events are very “loosely” based, but from the research I have done this one seems to be pretty spot on aside from some of the usual exaggerations. I mean this is just a crazy story and I’m glad Todd Phillips stepped up and put it on the big-screen. If you are a fan of Todd Phillips, Jonah Hill, Miles Teller, or simply value quality entertainment that actual teaches you a few things, War Dogs is worth every penny.

Jason Bourne

Director Paul Greengrass

Genre Action | Thriller

Cast Matt Damon, Tommy Lee Jones, Alicia Vikander, Vincent Cassell

Rating PG-13

Release Date July 29th, 2016

“The CIA’s most dangerous former operative is drawn out of hiding to uncover more explosive truths about his past.”

Jason Bourne is directed by Paul Greengrass and is the 5th installment in the franchise, the 4th with Matt Damon in the lead role. 2012’s The Bourne Legacy starred Jeremy Renner and also included a different director. After getting hounded by fans since 2007’s The Bourne Ultimatum, Damon and Greengrass agreed to return for another film. Jason Bourne also stars Tommy Lee Jones, Alicia Vikander, and Vincent Cassell.

Jason Bourne attempts to reignite the franchise with the return of Matt Damon and Paul Greengrass and even though it is enjoyable, the homecoming feels a bit uninspired compared to previous entries. I wanted to love Jason Bourne, I really did. On one hand the film delivered to fans the finely crafted action they have become accustomed to, but didn’t break any new ground. I am a huge Bourne fan and prior to the release of Jason Bourne I actually picked up the Blu-ray collection of the previous films. Although Matt Damon found himself in incredible shape for the film considering his seasoned age of 45, somehow his character that would usually send a chill down the spine of anyone on the other end of his crosshairs, felt like just another guy. Jason Bourne was supposed to be that much more dangerous considering the plot of the new film, but it seemed that somewhere along the line he lost his edge.

Matt Damon is an amazing actor and I have enjoyed his films for years, dating all the way back to 1997’s Good Will Hunting. We were introduced to his iconic Jason Bourne character in 2002, and Damon never looked back. He took on the Bourne role effortlessly and epitomized the badass nature we have grown to love about Jason Bourne. The lack of success with this film shouldn't fall on Damon, I personally think it was a lack of creativity. They had all of the tools to work with and instead of a fireworks display of a film, they played it safe and basically shackled an iconic character that was primed for a return. My hope is that the fire still burns for Damon after this film and he comes back better than ever. I have said it before and I will say it again, Julia Stiles is a bad actress. She just is. Yes she did well in 10 Things I Hate About You, but similar to Kristen Stewart, I am pretty sure she was more or less playing herself. Tommy Lee Jones was great as usual but man did he look old, I guess that becomes inevitable when you’re pushing 70. Keep fighting Tommy!

Jason Bourne was an entertaining film but you can’t help but compare it to prior entries and when doing so it falls short. It felt tired and sluggish compared to the high-octane thrill ride we have become accustomed to. I commend the effort by Greengrass and Damon and like many other fans out there, I am pleased they made another film. I just really wish it were better. Jason Bourne did pretty well in the box office and I have heard a few rumblings that maybe another film is in the works. If that is in fact the case, bring back the character we all know and love, please!! Perhaps my expectations were too high and maybe I just need to see it for a second time. Either way, I will give it another try once it releases on Blu-ray to make my final judgment. For a well-written action/thriller you could do worse than Jason Bourne, just be sure to keep your expectations in check.  

Suicide Squad

Director David Ayer

Genre Action | Adventure | Fantasy

Cast Margot Robbie, Scott Eastwood, Will Smith, Jared Leto

Rating PG-13

Release Date August 5th, 2016

“A secret government agency recruits a group of imprisoned supervillains to execute dangerous black ops missions in exchange for clemency, which inevitably leads to chaos.”

Suicide Squad is directed and written by David Ayer, the man behind Street Kings, End of Watch, and Fury. Suicide Squad releases as the next DC Universe film, following the shaky release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. The cast includes Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Jared Leto, Joel Kinneman, Jai Courtney, and many more.

Suicide Squad is a DC Universe project to be proud of, jam-packed with impressive visuals, non-stop action, and relentless humor, hitting the mark where Snyder’s Batman v Superman failed to. Similar to the villains portrayed in the film, Suicide Squad is absolutely oozing with personality. I loved the soundtrack, the immersive comic-book feel, and I also really enjoyed the backstories and flashbacks that were included. My DC Universe knowledge is severely lacking so it was helpful. Could it have been better? Sure. But I look at the final product with the glass half full approach, and the understanding that this is a step in the right direction in terms of what the DC Universe will be able to provide in the future. 

Suicide Squad includes a cast that looks amazing on paper, and it does not disappoint. Will Smith and Margot Robbie lead the charge in their respective roles as Deadshot and Harley Quinn. Smith is hilarious and delivers punchline after punchline, and true to her character Margot Robbie is cuckoo for cocoa puffs. Jared Leto put forth his best effort in an attempt to match Heath Ledger’s joker from The Dark Knight. He impressed me but the bar was simply set much too high. Joel Kinneman was very effective and had dynamic chemistry with the rest of the cast. I was pleasantly surprised to see Mindy Project star and co-writer, Ike Barinholtz in the film. Although his role was somewhat limited, the audience is exposed to him early on and he does a fantastic job helping to set the tone for the unique mix of psycho killers and quality humor.

With Suicide Squad, the majority of critics definitely dropped the ball and left me questioning whether or not this predetermined hatred towards the DC Universe and unwavering love for Marvel is actually a thing. Perhaps the conspiracy theories are a little bit much but what I know is the simple fact that when I spend my money at the theater (especially the high price of IMAX 3D) I expect to be entertained, and Suicide Squad not only sent me home happy, it left me wanting more. That ladies and gentleman, is the definition of entertainment. Ignore the haters and check this one out soon so that you can form your own opinion. You will be glad you did. Side note, early focus groups suggested that the film be reworked as they considered it to be too dark. Combine that with the rumblings of the many deleted scenes including a number of scenes with The Joker, and I expect a very impressive extended and/or unrated edition to be released on Blu-ray when the time comes. Can't wait!!

Nerve

Director Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman

Genre Crime | Mystery | Thriller

Cast Dave Franco, Emma Roberts, Kimiko Glenn, Juliette Lewis

Rating PG-13

Release Date July 27th, 2016

“A high school senior finds herself immersed in an online game of truth or dare, where her every move starts to become manipulated by an anonymous community of “watchers.””

Nerve is unique cyber thriller directed by Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman. The directing duo worked together on the documentary Catfish, Paranormal Activity 3 & 4, as well as the recently released indie horror film, Viral. Schulman is the older brother of Yaniv Schulman, known by most as “Nev” from the MTV show Catfish, which I will admit is an oddly addictive show. The film stars Emma Roberts, Dave Franco, Emily Meade, and Miles Heizer. Nerve is also the big-budget film debut for musical artist and television personality Richard Colson Baker, better known as Machine Gun Kelly.

Nerve is a high-energy thrill-ride fueled by adrenaline, bright lights and club music, a successful recipe for the big screen. The film should appeal to a wide audience but unquestionably targets the “social media” generation. I really enjoyed the pace of the film and it certainly triggered a few nerves of my own during some of the more daring scenes. The soundtrack was instrumental (see what I did there?) in the success of the overall flow of the film. Right from the start, I felt that Nerve had an identity and planned to stick with it. The biggest flaw in my opinion is that this film has a clear dedication to a certain audience, mainly the 18 to early 20-something range of viewers, but the fact that it can still appeal to those of us “slightly” out of that age range is an accomplishment in itself. The far-fetched yet somehow believable enough premise had some initial plot inconsistencies that were quickly cleared up, which helped put my mind at ease.

Nerve boasts a quality cast from the leads on down to the supporting cast. I am a big fan of Dave Franco who I feel got his first big break in 21 Jump Street. He is a very solid actor who is more than likely struggling to get out of his brother James Franco’s shadow, but I think he is getting there. He was genuinely likable in his role and had fantastic chemistry with his co-star Emma Roberts. With a diverse acting career so far, including American Horror Story and We’re The Millers, Roberts is a talented and naturally beautiful actress who is building a nice career for herself. Franco and Roberts absolutely steal the show when they are on screen together, making it feel believable that they are the fan favorites for this “game”. I also enjoyed Emily Meade’s performance (you may recognize her from HBO’s dramatic series The Leftovers). Miles Heizer was a nice addition as he played the timid character similar to his role in the show Parenthood. Machine Gun Kelly and his 6’3 ½ frame did surprisingly well as the film’s nemesis. Acting was definitely a strong point for Nerve and easily one of the selling points.

I went to see Nerve expecting something gimmicky and overly flashy, but I was pleasantly surprised by a film that held my attention and certainly entertained me. I was also impressed by the films overall message which would certainly resonate with anyone who studied or has an interest in social psychology. The idea that people behave differently when part of a crowd or hiding behind a mask or more importantly, a screen, is very real and very much a problem in society today. People act out on the internet and feel less responsible for their actions, but Nerve reminds us otherwise. You are responsible for the things you do online and you WILL be held responsible, cyber-crime and cyber bullying is illegal. Didn’t expect for a movie like Nerve to teach you a little something huh? Well neither did I, now do yourself a favor and check out this cyber-thriller sooner than later.

Lights Out

Director David F. Sandberg

Genre Horror

Cast Teresa Palmer, Maria Bello, Billy Burke, Emily Alyn Lind

Rating PG-13

Release Date July 22nd, 2016

“When her little brother, Martin, experiences the same events that once tested her sanity, Rebecca works to unlock the truth behind the terror, which brings her face to face with an entity that has an attachment to their mother, Sophie.”

Lights Out is the directorial debut for David F. Sandberg, the man behind the short film the movie is based on. Sandberg released the short film in 2013 and it has been considered somewhat of a cult classic ever since. Fans have been very vocal in their push for the short film to be made into a feature-film and they finally got their wish. Lights Out has a stellar cast including Maria Bello, Teresa Palmer, Gabriel Bateman, and Alexander DiPersia.

Lights Out shines as a modern-day horror film with stellar acting, a smart and effective story, and most importantly relentless jump scares and a chill factor that will not be soon forgotten. The film takes advantage of the most successful horror film elements, including great acting, which is rare for a horror, a story with just enough detail without overdoing it, and a very, very creepy ghost. Many critics have compared Lights Out to a few of the more highly rated horror films in the past year or so, including Goodnight Mommy, It Follows, and The Witch to name a few. Mike Flanagan's work on this film reminded me of an interview with the director of The Witch Robert Eggers, where he stated that the monster is scariest in the shadows, essentially meaning you never really want a clear view of what is providing the fear because it reduces the power it has over the audience. Lights Out clearly has the same mindset and by definition keeps the fear in the shadows making for a very effective film, sure to genuinely scare its viewers. 

Lights Out is a rarity when it comes to the cast, primarily due to the two big names Maria Bello and Teresa Palmer. Bello has been around for years while building up an acting resume of over 60 credits. She started off small but has played a pivotal role in some huge dramas in the past decade or so, including A History of Violence and most recently the hit film Prisoners. Teresa Palmer has taken off in a very diverse way, playing in a variety of comedy and romance films including Warm Bodies and The Choice, and also recently had a role in the robbery thriller Triple 9. Bello and Palmer play mother and daughter in Lights Out and they delivery top-notch performances, allowing their characters to develop, making the pain from their past feel as real as possible. Alexander DiPersia and Gabriel Bateman both deliver fine performances in their supporting roles.

Lights Out will shine as one of the better all-around horror films in the past few years, and that statement is well deserved. We are force fed mediocre horror films year in and year out, mainly due to the fact that studios know we will spend the money to see them because we crave horror. When the rare gems like It Follows, Goodnight Mommy, The Witch, and now Lights Out come around, horror fans rejoice and share a collective sigh of relief thinking there is in fact light (or better yet dark) at the end of the tunnel. I expect great things from David F. Sandberg and I hope he delivers with his next feature-film, which is the sequel to the disappointing 2014 film Annabelle, slated for a May 2017 release. Make us proud David!! Do yourself a favor and see Lights Out sooner than later, it’s worth it.

Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates

Director Jake Szymanski

Genre Comedy

Cast Zac Efron, Adam DeVine, Anna Kendrick, Aubrey Plaza

Rating R

Release Date July 8th, 2016

“Hard-partying brothers Mike (Adam Devine) and Dave (Zac Efron) place an online ad to find the perfect dates (Anna Kendrick, Aubrey Plaza) for their sister’s Hawaiian wedding. Hoping for a wild getaway, the boys instead find themselves outsmarted and out-partied by the uncontrollable duo.”

Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates is a comedy directed by Jake Szymanski and is his debut feature-film. Believe it or not, the film is actually based on a true story involving two brothers from New York who posted a Craiglist ad in 2013 for dates to their sister’s wedding. The roller coaster ride landed them on The Today Show which inevitably landed them a book and movie deal. The film stars Zac Efron, Adam DeVine, Anna Kendrick, and Aubrey Plaza.  

Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates is a raunchy comedy filled with laughs and enough heart to still qualify as a date night option. As a fan of the comedic actor Zac Efron has developed into (Neighbors 1 & 2, That Awkward Moment), as well as a huge fan of Workaholics star and co-creator, Adam DeVine, I had high expectations for this film right from the start. I definitely enjoyed it and felt that the screenplay was interesting enough yet simple. The chemistry between the cast was spot on and it was clear how much fun they were having. I was pleasantly surprised by a deeper message revealed towards the end of the film, although it definitely took a back seat to the humor. What bothers me is the fact that I genuinely feel like Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates could have been better, and that may simply be my high expectations blurring my overall opinion but I expected an instant classic. I’m not sure what exactly it was missing, but something tells me I will enjoy it even more the next time I see it. Considering this is the work of a rookie director, the final product was pretty damn solid all things considered.

For a raunchy comedy, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates includes above average acting from a stellar cast consisting of Zac Efron, Anna Kendrick, Adam DeVine, and Aubrey Plaza. Efron did well and once again I enjoyed his ability to really immerse himself in a comedic role, which he has clearly found success with. I was actually most impressed with DeVine and the fact that he quite simply stole the show. I understand that some people get bored with his exaggerated brand of humor which he puts on full display in Comedy Central’s Workaholics series, but his character is well-rounded enough that pretty much everyone should be genuinely impressed with his performance. Kendrick was solid as expected and displayed fantastic chemistry with Efron throughout the film. My biggest disappointment was Plaza and her “bad girl” persona mainly because it felt very forced to me. As the film comes to a conclusion, you begin to understand why she acts the way she does but it still left me feeling a little meh and I generally enjoy her work. She played a relatively similar role in Dirty Grandpa but I felt like she was a bit more believable in that.

Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates is a crowd pleasing comedy that admittedly is best enjoyed after enjoying a few adult beverages, but aren’t most comedies? After watching a few of the outtakes during the credits I realized that the Blu-Ray release of this film will be incredible with the amount of deleted scenes and gag reels. I can’t wait! If you consider yourself a fan of comedy or better yet have a soft spot for Adam DeVine or Workaholics in general, you owe it to yourself to check this one out and enjoy some good old fashioned R-rated humor.

The Secret Life of Pets

Director Chris Renaud, Yarrow Cheney

Genre Animation | Family | Comedy

Cast Louis C.K., Kevin Hart, Eric Stonestreet, Jenny Slate

Rating PG

Release Date July 8th, 2016

“Taking place in a Manhattan apartment building, Max’s life as a favorite pet is turned upside down, when his owner brings home a sloppy mongrel named Duke. They have to put their quarrels behind when they find out that an adorable white bunny named Snowball is building an army of abandoned pets determined to take revenge on all happy-owned pets and their owners.”

The Secret Life of Pets is directed by Yarrow Cheney and Chris Renaud, the duo behind Despicable Me 1 & 2. This is the third animated feature film for Illumination Entertainment, now owned by Universal Studios, the first two being the Despicable Me films and Minions. The film stars Louis C.K., Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family), Kevin Hart, and Jenny Slate (Parks and Rec, Zootopia).

The Secret Life of Pets is a very imaginative and fun feel-good comedy for the entire family, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. If you are a pet lover you simply owe it to yourself to see this movie. I couldn’t even count the amount of times I found myself saying "that is definitely my dog/cat!" Kudos to the team behind the film for putting together something that such a widespread audience can appreciate. It is sure to please everyone from your 5-year-old to your 80-year-old grandmother! Although The Secret Life of Pets didn’t quite live up to the bar set by Inside Out or Zootopia (both of which included a much deeper message), it will stand on its own nonetheless. Also, as an added bonus we were treated to a Minions short film before the film which was absolutely hilarious. I love those little yellow guys. 

When it comes to animated films built on comedic chemistry between its voice actors, The Secret Life of Pets is easily of the upper echelon. The cast is lead by hilarious comedian turned TV star, Louis C.K., who is absolutely perfect for the role of Max. Eric Stonestreet, who most people will know from the comedy Modern Family, plays the role of Duke and as usual it is impossible to dislike the guy. Former SNL star, Jenny Slate was crucial to the success of the film in her role as the adorable little dog Gidget. As a big fan of Kevin Hart, I was not surprised to find that his role as the troublemaking rabbit was easily my favorite. Hart couldn’t help but to make an impression with his trademark over-the-top humor which fit perfectly.

The Secret Life of Pets is a fun-filled comedy for the entire family and a guiltless reason to visit the theater this summer. Given the fact that the plot and overall message isn't quite as far reaching as this years animated hit, Zootopia, I can't bring myself to place it at the top of the list of must-see movies but it is easily in the top 5. The Secret Life of Pets will satisfy your craving for pure unadulterated entertainment and is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone, so be sure to check it out sooner rather than later. Considering its success in the box office, my guess is we will see some sort of sequel. Bring it on!

Swiss Army Man

Director Dan Kwan, Daniel Scheinert

Genre Adventure | Comedy | Drama

Cast Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Daniel Radcliffe, Paul Dano, Timothy Eulich

Rating R

Release Date June 24th, 2016

“A hopeless man stranded in the wilderness befriends a dead body and together they go on a surreal journey to get home.”

Swiss Army Man is directed and written by Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, also known as Daniels shown on screen at the start of the film. The directing and writing duo took home the coveted Directing Award when the film premiered at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival. Swiss Army Man is said to be the work of some extremely wild and crazy imaginations, bringing together a variety of unique elements to the film industry. The film stars Paul Dano, Daniel Radcliffe, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead. 

Swiss Army Man is a perfect example of filmmaking as a true art form, thought provoking and unique to its very core. I first experienced the trailer for the film at the theater 2 or 3 months ago and wasn't sure what to think, but I was intrigued. After finally seeing it, I honestly wasn't sure how to wrap my brain around this bizarre film. How someone was able to come up with something so absurd is baffling to be quite honest (obviously it's a good thing). Considering the far-fetched premise, I was genuinely impressed by how real the film felt. The characters truly came to life (sort of) and I felt a closeness to the events that were unfolding right before my eyes. The film was actually quite a bit funnier than I expected in a quirky sort of way, which felt like a nice touch and contributed to the overall entertainment value of the film.

Swiss Army Man puts some of the best acting I've seen in some time on display, taking advantage of a small and very committed cast. Paul Dano is absolutely incredible and he deserves a ton of credit for his clear dedication to his role. Daniel Radcliff and his sidekick, Manny are exceptional as well, and the on-screen chemistry between him and Dano is tremendous. In some strange way I actually feel for Daniel Radcliff and his struggle to shake the Harry Potter persona but this film is certainly a step in the right direction. Mary Elizabeth Winstead has very limited actual screen time but she is still great as expected. 

Swiss Army Man isn't for everyone and I'm sure it will rub some people the wrong way, but if you have an appreciation for quality film, this is an absolute must see. My only regret is that I wasn't able to see it when it had its debut at the Sundance Film Festival. I'm not sure how much recognition Swiss Army Man will receive come award season, but I will be genuinely surprised if it doesn't take home something or at least get a few nominations. People continue to say they want more original ideas in Hollywood. Well, it doesn't get much more original than this, folks! 

The Purge: Election Year

Director James DeMonaco

Genre Action | Horror | Sci-Fi

Cast Frank Grillo, Elizabeth Mitchell, Mykelti Williamson, Raymond J. Barry

Rating R

Release Date July 1st, 2016

“Years after sparing the man who killed his son, former police sergeant Barnes has become head of security for Senator Charlie Roan, a Presidential candidate targeted for death on Purge night due to her vow to eliminate the Purge.”

The Purge: Election Year serves as the third and newest entry in The Purge film series, with the first film releasing in 2013. Writer and director, James DeMonaco, is back at the helm, as he also wrote and directed the first two films. His previous work includes writing credits for The Negotiatior and Assault on Precinct 13. Frank Grillo made his debut in the second film, The Purge: Anarchy and is back for The Purge: Election Year, teaming up with co-star Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost). The film also stars Mykelti Williamson (Forrest Gump, Justified), Joseph Julian Soria (Max), and Betty Gabriel. 

The Purge: Election Year proves itself as a worthy sequel, building on a creative premise by offering fans a superior script, more gratuitous violence, and some great acting. It may say something about my sick and twisted sense of entertainment but I have genuinely enjoyed all 3 of The Purge films. But seriously, if people would get off their high horse for two seconds they would agree that it is an interesting and creative premise that allows our imaginations to run wild. At the end of the day it is just a movie and I'm not buying into that lunatic who went on a killing spree claiming he was influenced by the films. He made some very, very stupid decisions and wanted something to blame (rant over). The Purge: Election Year advances the overall direction of the film series and focuses a bit more on the political side of things but don’t worry, this film is anything but boring. I was entertained the entire time and even though I do feel like they could have expanded on the excessive violence related to The Purge (there goes my twisted imagination again), what they did worked and it worked well.

As far as acting goes, The Purge films somehow manage to pull double-duty sort of speak, meaning they offer viewers a talented cast even though they could have still made an entertaining film with lesser actors. I am glad they went the route they have! The first film had Ethan Hawke, the second film introduced Frank Grillo, who returns for The Purge: Election Year and he does not miss a beat! I really enjoy him as an actor and the level of intensity he brings to his role really helps to intensify the seriousness of the danger the characters find themselves in. This guy thrives as a straight-laced military type character and this film is no exception. Former Lost star, Elizabeth Mitchell, is a welcomed addition (she made her debut in the Angelina Jolie film, Gia) and she is great. I was very impressed by the chemistry between Grillo and Mitchell and felt like they played off each other quite well.

The Purge: Election Year satisfied my craving that has been burning hot since the first film hit theaters in 2013. Although I do consider this to be the best overall film in the series, I think The Purge: Anarchy took more advantage of the actual Purge activities within the city, which was a nice touch. It would have been nice to see them expand on that expectation within this film. The bottom line is simple, if you enjoyed the first two films, The Purge: Election Year will not disappoint and will instill even more faith in James DeMonaco and the future of The Purge films. 

The Purge: Election Year is now available VOD and streaming on FX Now. Watch the official trailer below.

The Shallows

Director Jaume Collet-Serra

Genre Drama | Thriller

Cast Blake Lively, Oscar Jaenada, Sedona Legge

Rating PG-13

Release Date June 24th, 2016

“A mere 200 yards from shore, surfer Nancy is attacked by a great white shark, with her short journey to safety becoming the ultimate contest of wills.”

The Shallows is an intense thriller directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, the visionary mind behind Unknown, Non-Stop, and Run All Night. The film stars accomplished actress, Blake Lively, who most recently starred in Savages and The Age of Adaline. Touted as the next generation Jaws, The Shallows certainly has some very big shoes to fill.

Including serine visuals matched only by its relentless thrill factor, The Shallows is a shark attack thriller more than worthy of the big-screen. Like many other movie fans out there in the world, I also wondered how a film centered solely around one woman hiding on a rock from a killer great white shark could possibly hold my attention for over an hour and a half. Well The Shallows grabbed ahold of me and held on tight, literally putting me on the edge of my seat for the entire film. It is very difficult to make me jump (I see pretty much every single horror or thriller that hits theaters) and this one got me a few times, which is a credit to the atmosphere as well as the calm before the storm feel the film elicits. This is a true thriller.

Considering its rather limited cast, The Shallows somehow manages to create a very solid backstory, as well as a sense of attachment to a few minor characters (spoiler-alert, a seagull may or may not steal the show). Blake Lively is incredible as expected and this just might be her most impressive role yet. She brings her character to life and epitomizes what it means for a human being to persevere in the face of imminent danger. As a viewer you can’t help but think to yourself, “How would I react in this situation?” As a huge bonus, Blake Lively is absolutely mesmerizing and I am truly thankful she was given this role (damn you Ryan Reynolds for stealing her away).  If the extremely intimidating great white shark had a name, I would give him a shout out as well, he certainly left quite an impression. Unfortunately, similar to the Somali pirate from Captain Phillips, he has very limited role potential, regardless of how talented he may be. 

The Shallows is as intensely beautiful a film as I can remember, making it genuinely unique in its own right. Each and every frame will leave you in awe with its sheer beauty. Trying to compare the film to a classic like Jaws would be unfair to both in different ways. I mean we are talking over 40 years since the first Jaws hit theaters. What matters to me is whether or not The Shallows delivered the entertainment value that I expected from a film with a visionary director and a big name actress, and I left the theater with a damn big smile on my face. Sounds like a win to me. Do yourself a favor and check out The Shallows sooner than later because this is a movie meant to be seen during the summer (unless you’re a big sissy that is).

Fathers and Daughters

Director Gabriele Muccino

Genre Drama

Cast Russell Crowe, Amanda Seyfried, Aaron Paul, Diane Kruger

Rating R

Release Date July 8th, 2016

“A Pulitzer-winning writer grapples with being a widower and father after a mental breakdown, while, 27 years later, his grown daughter struggles to forge connections of her own.”

Fathers & Daughters is a drama directed by Gabriele Muccino, who previously directed The Pursuit of Happiness and Seven Pounds, both starring Will Smith. He seems to have a preference for dramas that include a love story in one aspect or another. This latest project also has a stellar cast including Russell Crowe, Amanda Seyfried (Mean Girls, Dear John), and Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad, Triple 9).

Fathers & Daughters is an emotionally charged drama sure to satisfy viewers craving more than a recycled script with an unsatisfyingly predictable story. Although overly ambitious, this is a film that deserves its fair share of appreciation, if only for the sheer will to tell an emotionally complicated story sure to pull at the heart strings. The film is not without its faults and certain aspects of the story felt incredibly rushed, reminding me of what you generally experience with a film adaptation of a book, which is not the case here. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of the film shines through in the end, leaving a sad, yet optimistic lasting impression.

The acting in Fathers & Daughters is without question the biggest check mark for the film. As I mentioned before, the film is definitely overly ambitious, primarily with the script, but the performances of the talented cast help to cover any potential blemishes. Veteran actor Russell Crowe delivers yet another spectacular performance in his role as a determined father fighting an uphill battle. Amanda Seyfried shines as a woman haunted by a traumatic youth, and former Breaking Bad star Aaron Paul delivers a very believable performance, continuing to prove that he can play just about any role. It would be wrong for me not to point out the very effective performance delivered by young actress, Kylie Rogers in the role of young Katie.

Fathers & Daughters is a powerful film that requires all of your attention as well as an abundance of empathy. Unlike many of the aptly named “tear jerkers” released in the past decade or so, this is a film that demands emotion organically and works very hard for each and every tear you may or may not shed during the just under 2-hour film. If you can appreciate a well-written, emotional story with well above average acting, Fathers & Daughters will suit you just fine.

Central Intelligence

Director Rawson Marshall Thurber

Genre Comedy

Cast Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Aaron Paul, Amy Ryan

Rating PG-13

Release Date June 17th, 2016

“After he reunites with an old pal through Facebook, a mild-mannered accountant is lured into the world of international espionage.”

Central Intelligence is directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber, who previously directed Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, which has developed into a bit of a cult classic. He also directed the 2013 comedy, We’re The Millers. The film stars former professional wrestler turned actor, Dwayne Johnson, and successful pint sized stand-up comedian turned actor, Kevin Hart.

Central Intelligence flips the script by reversing the type-cast roles for two of Hollywood’s biggest names, and it works. Although some would argue that it fits in the category of “leave your brain at the door” style comedy, and don’t get me wrong I would have a difficult time arguing against that fact, but guess what? Who cares! Whether we want to admit it or not, audiences crave mindless humor, myself included, and Central Intelligence spares us the complex story line and instead sets the table for just under 2 hours of laugh-out-loud humor and good old fashioned buddy comedy. I left the theater entertained and I never felt board, and to be quite honest I am looking forward to seeing these two actors together again soon. Rumor has it they are in production for a new Jumanji film, which will also star Jack Black.

It took a little getting used to but I enjoyed the quality of the acting in Central Intelligence. Dwayne Johnson steps into relatively unfamiliar territory (not counting family movies of course) as he plays a fairly goofy role. At first I was a bit taken back by his character and unsure what I thought of this transformation, but I’ll admit it grew on me. He does a superb job balancing between his goofy character and a serious CIA agent while always maintaining his good nature, which should be well received by audiences. Kevin Hart played a much more grounded role compared to the overly eccentric roles he tends to play, which was refreshing and should please viewers who consider themselves sick of his usual routine. The audience is also treated with a surprise appearance from Breaking Bad star, Aaron Paul, who certainly makes his presence known.

I had high expectations for Central Intelligence and I was quite impressed with the final product. What we were given is a film that will most likely serve as the jumping off point for a successful Hollywood duo consisting of Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart. Granted this is the epitome of mindless entertainment, but that’s fine because Central Intelligence knows how to entertain fans of good comedy, so if you fall into that demographic I suggest you check it out. Also, this was leaps and bounds better than Ride Along 2, and when it comes to Ice Cube or Dwayne Johnson tearing up the screen with Kevin Hart, Dwayne Johnson > Ice Cube. Period.  

Me Before You

Director Thea Sharrock

Genre Drama

Cast Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin, Jenna Coleman, Matthew Lewis

Rating PG-13

Release Date June 3rd, 2016

“A girl in a small town forms an unlikely bond with a recently-paralyzed man she’s taking care of.”

Me Before You is the film adaptation of the best-selling novel written by Jojo Moyes. In the week following the release of the first trailer for the film, the book went from #141 to #3 on USA Today’s best-selling book list, which isn’t bad at all. The film serves as inexperienced director Thea Sharrock’s movie directorial debut. The cast of Me Before You includes Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones, Terminator Genisys), Sam Claflin (The Hunger Games: Catching Fire), Janet McTeer (Maleficent), and Charles Dance (Game of Thrones).

Me Before You is a genuinely effective book to big screen adaptation that will surely satisfy fans of the book as well as newcomers unfamiliar with the source material. I fall into the percentage of viewers who have yet to read the book and I was very pleased with my overall experience. I felt that the crucial aspects of the film that had to work in order for the film to succeed somehow worked even better than I could have anticipated. Most notably the acting, script, and a fantastic soundtrack including songs from Imagine Dragons and X Ambassadors, that will surely sell quite a few copies. 

One of my favorite takeaways from Me Before You was easily the impressive cast. Lead by Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke, who is absolutely outstanding in her role, even as a slightly unrecognizable brunette.  She proves to be an actress with a diverse skillset able to step into each and every role that awaits her. She is incredibly cute from her bubbly personality to her strange yet oddly appealing wardrobe choices. Co-star Sam Claflin is quite impressive in his own right, managing to portray a character with very complex emotions. Overall though what anchors the film is the incredible chemistry between Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, who develop a unique bond that somehow transcends the screen. I also really enjoyed Stephen Peacocke (Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, Hercules) in the role of Nathan who serves as the medical caretaker  to Will Traynor (Sam Claflin). He is perfect in his role and to me was invaluable to the overall effectiveness of the film.

The film was met with a great deal of controversy and although the point that was trying to be made is valid, one aspect of the general displeasure towards the film was seemingly overlooked. This is work of fiction based on a novel which was also a, wait for it, work of fiction. Even if the film were to be based on true events, the actions of any of the characters involved would be solely at the discretion of those individuals and would in no way represent any group or community. Okay (deep breath), rant over. With a very strong script, high quality acting, and the undeniable success of its paperback counterpart, Me Before You is the perfect date movie and should not be missed.  

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows

Director Dave Green

Genre Action | Adventure | Comedy

Cast Megan Fox, Will Arnette, Stephen Amell, Allen Ritchson

Rating PG-13

Release Date June 3rd, 2016

“As Shredder joins forces with mad scientist Baxter Stockman and henchmen Bebop and Rocksteady to take over the world, the Turtles must confront an even greater nemesis: the notorious Krang.”

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows is the sequel to the 2014 film, which received less than favorable reviews. The 2014 film ended up doing rather well in the box office, even though the majority of its earnings were from foreign markets. At the end of the day, money is money. The sequel stars Megan Fox, Will Arnett, Laura Kinney, and Stephen Amell. 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows is an entertaining popcorn-flick that delivers a healthy dose of nostalgia to casual and hardcore fans alike. I enjoyed the first film but I felt like this one put in extra effort to satisfy a very committed fan base. The sequel includes the welcomed addition of the hockey mask wearing Casey Jones and the idiotic yet nearly impossible to dislike duo Rocksteady and Bebop. Fans who grew up watching TMNT will find it difficult not to smile when watching the characters that helped to shape their childhood (for better or for worse). The film struggles to take off and never really seems to get a full head of steam after one of the early action scenes. I did enjoy the identity struggle the Turtles faced and I felt that an important message was conveyed. Something we battle with everyday which is the idea that it is okay to be different, because our differences make us who we are. Granted none of us are baby turtles that mutated and were subsequently trained by a martial arts master rat in the sewers of NYC, but you get my point. 

To say acting is an afterthought in this film would be an understatement. Fans voiced their collective displeasure over the casting of Megan Fox as April O’Neil, and I get it. She sucks as an actress, but so does Kristen Stewart, yet she continues to get roles (granted she tends to sleep with the directors but still). What Megan Fox is that Stewart isn’t? Ding ding ding, you guessed it. She is attractive! That is why she was given the role and the sooner people accept that the better. Would I have preferred Natalie Portman? You’re damn right I would have but that sweet goddess is busy making films that hope to be mentioned come award season (I just took a glimpse at her IMDb page and her profile photo made me a bit lightheaded, unreal). To conclude my April O’Neil rant, Megan Fox is good enough as an attractive female with mediocre to below average acting skills, Natalie Portman is the love of my life, and Paige Turco who played the role of April in 1991’s TMNT II: The Secret of the Ooze, remains my all-time favorite for the role. I also enjoyed Stephen Amell as Casey Jones and WWF/WWE wrestler Sheamus was fun to watch as Rocksteady. 

I was a hardcore fan of the mutant turtles turned crime-fighting ninjas growing up and to this day I consider the Ninja Turtle van I was given for one of my birthdays to be my all-time favorite toy (I must have been 7 or so as it was around the release of the first movie in 1990). In retrospect, I wish I hadn’t beaten the living crap out of it so it would have lasted longer but I had my fun. What can I say I was a destructive little boy. When the release of the 2014 remake/reimagining was announced I held out hope that it would be a darker film that focused on the realities of the struggles faced by the turtles. Unfortunately, that was not the case. Instead we were given a very goofy CGI heavy version of our childhood heroes. Although I have enjoyed the new films and appreciate a helping hand for the walk down memory lane, you just can’t compete with the first two and 1991’s The Secret of the Ooze remains my favorite (I literally choreographed every fighting scene in my living room as a kid while wearing a Ninja Turtles onesie). Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows is worth checking out for fans but I suggest keeping expectations somewhat reserved. 

The Conjuring 2

Director James Wan

Genre Horror

Cast Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, David Thewlis, Franka Potente

Rating R

Release Date June 10th, 2016

“Lorraine and Ed Warren travel to north London to help a single mother raising four children alone in a house plagued by malicious spirits.”

The Conjuring 2 is the sequel to 2013’s successful horror film The Conjuring, which was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. The film chronicles the events that took place in Enfield, England from 1977-1979, known as the “Enfield Poltergeist.” James Wan returns to direct the sequel, and it is said that he turned down a formidable amount of money to direct Fast 8 so that he could direct this film instead. Wan himself said he was excited for the opportunity to direct another horror film (I guess he enjoys making people pee their pants). The film stars Patrick Stewart, Vera Farmiga, David Thewlis, and Franka Potente

The Conjuring 2 is yet another work of art from horror master James Wan, terrifying it’s viewers with an engaging story, a chilling atmosphere, jolting jump scares, and top-tier acting. Rarely is a sequel able to stand on its own after a very successful first film but this is a perfect example of exactly that. From the opening scene right up until the end credits, a sense of inescapable dread attaches itself to the audience and refuses to let go. The film includes a unique mix of everything horror fans want without overdoing it. With horror you either get it or you don’t, and James Wan gets it. As a director he seems to have an eye for horror in every respect, and the level of skill and ability he brings to a project seems to rub off on all involved. I felt like Wan stepped his game up with some unique camera work which provided a genuinely unique feel for viewers.

As I mentioned previously, the acting in The Conjuring 2 is absolutely fantastic. Patrick Stewart and Vera Farmiga reclaim the lead roles as Ed and Lorraine Warren, the real-life couple that spent years going face to face with ghosts and demonic entities. They both play their respective roles perfectly, and it certainly helps that Stewart and Farmiga are both very talented actors. Stewart is coming off a stellar performance in the second season of the FX series Fargo, and Farmiga continues to shine in the successful A&E series, Bates Motel. The supporting cast delivered a commendable performance as well, specifically Frances O’Connor who played the mother of the possessed little girl. Unfortunately I felt like they could have done better when casting the little girl, played by Madison Wolfe. Wolfe has built up quite the resume appearing in HBO’s True Detective, alongside Jennifer Lawrence in Joy, as well as the Bryan Cranston film Trumbo, but at the end of the day she simply wasn’t creepy enough. I’m not sure who I personally would have chosen, but the reincarnation of one of The Shining twins would be a great place to start.

The Conjuring 2 is a genuinely horrifying film brought to life by a talented director who quite frankly knows his sh*t. Regardless of whether you prefer jump scares or sheer terror, this film delivers on all fronts and for that reason will satisfy the most diverse group of horror fans. Even though I feel the final product could have been better with a few changes, The Conjuring 2 is a sequel more than worthy of its name and should not be missed.

Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping

Director Akiva Schaffer, Jorma Taccone

Genre Comedy

Cast Andy Samberg, Imogen Poots, Sarah Silverman, Bill Hader

Rating R

Release Date June 3rd, 2016

“When it becomes clear that his solo album is a failure, a former boy band member does everything in his power to maintain his celebrity status.”

Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is directed by Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone, both original members of The Lonely Island. The 3rd member (and clearly most popular) is Andy Samberg. The comedic trio was formed in Berkely, California, in 2001. They met in Jr. High and after college decided to take their act to the bright lights of L.A. Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping also stars Tim Meadows, Maya Rudolph, Sarah Silverman, and Imogen Poots.

Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is a hilariously creative collaboration for The Lonely Island trio, successfully mocking the music industry with relative ease. I enjoy Andy Samberg and I feel that he is funny even though he can be way too over the top at times. This film truly felt like the product of a great working relationship with everyone involved and what they came up with is something to be proud of. Some have compared the film to an SNL skit that lasts just under an hour and a half, but that isn’t entirely true. Granted it has that SNL skit feel to it at times but the story unfolds nicely and paves the way for a bit more meaning than expected. Although Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping might not quite crack my top 5 Judd Apatow produced films list, it was very entertaining and easily crawled into the top 10.  

As a film, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping includes goofy acting not intended to be taken seriously (or too seriously anyway). Is that a knock on the film? Not at all, it is simply a successful attempt at satire. It is clearly a knock on the music industry (thank you captain obvious), but it is much more than that. It is a clear-cut example of what our lives have become due to our infatuation and all-encompassing dependability on technology. Social media rules the world, I wish that weren’t true but it is simply our world today. Gone are the good old days when bringing an out of service pager to school felt cool (yes, that was me in middle school, full disclosure I was also a big Backstreet Boys fan).

Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is a very entertaining and funny popcorn flick that will surely please fans of Andy Samberg or The Lonely Island crew in general. If you dislike Samberg it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that you will probably dislike the movie considering he is the lead. Samberg’s over the top brand of humor was kept in check and I felt that was a plus. I am honestly looking forward to the official release of the music videos from the movie, specifically “Equal Rights.” It was hilarious. If you feel like having some quality laughs while gaining some useful (and some just plain ridiculous) insight into the music industry, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is the movie for you.