Brett_G

“Star Wars: Episode IX”

By Brett_G on December 20, 2019

9.4

After “Avengers: Endgame,” I didn’t know if anyone would ever land the plane as well as the Russo brothers when it came to a mega franchise believed by millions… until JJ Abrams delivered one of the greatest third acts not only of a trilogy, but a saga, that I have ever enjoyed on the big screen. Expertly executed callbacks and homages to classic Star Wars moments. The redemption of the perfect characters at the perfect times. The best case scenario endings for almost all involved… and enough nostalgia to make “Ready Player One” blush. To see everything come to fruition and come full circle left such a strong sense of closure that I felt completely satisfied when the credits rolled. There will be division, yes, but we can all say that we have witnessed cinematic history this year, and have shared some cherished memories with our fellow Star Wars fans over these past 4 years. Bravo to all involved… now onto a much deserved rest for the near future for this legendary franchise. We’ll see you on Disney+.

Rom-Com

“Just Friends”

By Brett_G on December 15, 2019

7.7

How does Ryan Reynolds do it? He plays virtually the same character in every movie… and it always works!?! Any-who… this Christmas-time tale of wisdom regarding the dreaded “friend zone” will forever live on in infamy. Not only for its cinematic genius within the genre, but for its relatability and wisdom. A definite classic.

Horror/Thriller

“Black Christmas”

By Brett_G on December 15, 2019

0.5

If I could give negative stars, I would. Yikes. There’s almost 2 hours of my life I’ll never get back… not only was the dialogue just a collection of bad hot takes from cable news, but the acting was terrible, and the characters were as one dimensional as they come. The film also had an undeniable crisis of identity that left it constantly contradicting itself and taking all of the power out of its messages. Never a good sign when you’re rooting for the characters to die faster so the movie will be over sooner.

Blockbuster Comedy

“Jumanji: The Next Level”

By Brett_G on December 14, 2019

8.1

As far as sequels go… damn. That was a fun 2 hour ride! The cast returns with just the right amount of differentiation from the first, just the right amount of laughs to heart. There’s a needle to thread with follow-up films, and this one nails it! Possibly my favorite performances from The Rock and Jack Black. Really the entire cast takes it up a notch for this one. (Still get a tad bit distracted by Karen Gillian) Really a return to the magic of the first.

Blockbuster

“When the Game Stands Tall”

By Brett_G on December 12, 2019

8.3

Ready to cry to a football movie? Look no further. This cast of mostly b-list stars and up and coming actors rises to the occasion of telling the tale of one of the most legendary sports franchises and records in history… the De La Salle high school football winning streak, fall from grace, and resurgence. An inspiring story of perseverance, integrity, and character… all set against the backdrop of the gridiron. One of the few movies I’ve watched more than once in the theater when it was released.