Cinematic Sommelier
7.9
Such a beautiful sendoff for Tony Todd. That’s what this one was really about in the end. The rest of the movie hits the required “Final Destination” beats to a t, and the cast does a great job of committing to the bit as they get picked off in increasingly creative ways. Familial cosmic connection, cool kills, and a bit of emotional weight. Chef’s kiss.
8.8
Partially exactly what I expected, but so much more at the same time. In the spirit of “The Great Gatsby,” the brothers chase their dreams of throwing a great party and meet poetic ends. The music, the cast, the scenery… Everything fires on all cylinders here! The ending giving Tarantino a run for his money had me speechless. The vampire angle surprisingly fits and doesn’t disrupt the momentum or seem silly. Instead, it fits remarkably well as an allegory. One of the best of 2025!
7.2
Insert Vince Vaughn in the middle of nonnas. Hilarity ensues. His typical charm leads to a nice warmth to the story that really carries it home. Some genuine laughs sprinkled in. A recipe for a solid movie.
8.2
Sad I didn’t get to see this one in IMAX. Even on a TV screen, it’s EPIC. The grandeur of this film is off the charts, every frame beautifully crafted and dripping in gravitas. Guillermo del Torro doing what he does best, at the height of his powers. Oscar Isaac turns in a surprisingly great performance as the good doctor. This iteration of the story tackles the complicated themes of the original in a way not many have in recent iterations. There was a great weight to things and a tension throughout that was palpable. Truly a work of art!
8.2
Was it great? Of course. Was I also happy that this is the end? Also yes. A cinematic victory lap emptying out all the greatest hits, as Ed and Lorraine saddle up for one last ride. There’s a lot to like here, a lot of good scares, and a great deal of ridiculousness that gives this cinematic universe its charm. A fitting, albeit long in the tooth finale to the series.
Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare 