Comedy – Page 6 – Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare

“Fly Me To The Moon”

By Brett_G on July 16, 2024

7.8

This one genuinely surprised me. I didn’t expect these two to have such chemistry, and I didn’t expect the film to be so fun. The story itself is a conspiracy-lover’s dream. One of the ultimate historical easter eggs we all ponder from time to time. However, they don’t make it weird here. It actually works within what turns out to be a romantic comedy for the ages. Who woulda thunk it?

Channing Tatum really doesn’t get enough credit for his acting chops. I’m not afraid to give props to Magic Mike. The guy can act his ass off, and does here opposite of the always amazing Scarlett Johansson. Add in Woody Harrelson and Dean Pelton from “Community,” and you have a comedic juggernaut with heart for days. The 60’s aesthetic is to die for, as is the soundtrack front to back. Suit up, and prepare to enjoy a lighthearted balancing force alongside “Long Legs” at the multiplex this week.

“Free Time”

By Brett_G on July 13, 2024July 13, 2024

7.4

As someone who’s currently stumbling his way towards turning 31… this movie encapsulates how its felt to be 30. Awkward. Feeling like something’s been missed, feeling like making a change, thinking I’m actually doing pretty well, thinking I need to start a cult where we all go camping by the river and hammock while catching up on our reading before all going back to our old day job and coming full circle. (Yes, that last one’s a summation of a passage of the film.)

It felt very “Office Space” in its exploration of purpose, comparison to others, and the tug of war between laser focus and aimlessness. There’s a balance to be found in the chaos and lessons to be learned but not dwelled upon along the way. I’ll try not to get too bad reflecting and pontificating here… And also avoid growing a mustache. I’m pretty sure that’s not the answer, either.

Comedy Drama Indie

“Kinds of Kindness”

By Brett_G on July 9, 2024July 4, 2024

7.2

I expected weird, and weird I received.

What turned out to be the same ensemble telling 3 loosely related tales of psychologically disorienting oddity plays out over almost 3 hours of runtime. Each seemingly stranger than the next. I’m still not sure how to adequately put into words what this one entails without giving away the element of surprise, which is this movie’s biggest pocket ace. Definitely don’t watch with children or if you have a weak stomach… Shit gets weird, and it keeps getting weirder…

Action Blockbuster Comedy

“Bad Boys: Ride or Die”

By Brett_G on July 8, 2024July 4, 2024

7.5

Was this batshit insane? Yes. Yes it was.

Did it still work? Hell yes it did!

What could have easily fallen into stupid territory somehow ended up in so stupid its fun territory that the “Fast & Furious” franchise has been aiming for for years now. The cast is perfect. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence really have these characters figured out, and the supporting cast they’ve assembled fire on all cylinders to deliver a powerhouse ensemble performance. I’m not sure the plot really matters. What matters is the creativity in the cinematography and the almost constant risk taking that pays off at every turn. They had fun with this one, and it comes through in almost every frame. A breath of fresh air in the middle of blockbusters trying to take themselves too seriously. Well done!

Action Comedy

“Thelma”

By Brett_G on July 6, 2024July 4, 2024

8.2

This movie is INSANE! But it’s also insanely good.

In a sneak attack out of nowhere, this followed the likes of “Book Club” and “Last Vegas” to add a legendary chapter to the Elderly shenanigans cinematic universe. I laughed, I cried, I was on the edge of my seat… this one never missed! At a tight hour and a half, it was firing on all cylinders the entire time and had the sellout crowd cheering by the time the credits rolled. You can’t ask for a better popcorn flick with heart!