Cinematic Sommelier
8.3
The only thing preventing this from being a higher score is the legendary Live Aid performance. That aside, this is the band on its ascent to infamy, at the height of their powers. “Firing on all cylinders” doesn’t do the performance justice. Similar to “The Eras Tour” and “Stop Making Sense” last year (sorry for missing “Renaissance”), this is best seen in IMAX – the biggest screen and the loudest cinema you can find. They will, they will, ROCK YOU!
7.8
Anna Kendrick was in it, so you know I had to watch it.
Once I dove in, I was pleasantly surprised by this one! A mix of “Squid Game,” romantic comedy, “It Follows,” and the “Purge” series… in a blender of head-scratchers. The sweet moments and genuine chemistry between Jake Johnson and pretty much every member of the cast caught me off-guard, and really added to the movie itself. Hulu’s known for sleeper hits, and this is no exception! Definitely not your typical action or romance movie, but a fun hour and a half ride!
8.5
This one walked so that “I Think You Should Leave” could run… Such a perfect balance of Michigander inside jokes and beautiful Detroit scenery alongside Tim Robinson’s insanity. Sam Richardson was such a perfect pairing, along with pretty much every member of the supporting cast. I have no idea how I missed this one for so long, and now feel sad that it only lasted two seasons. Wonderfully weird lightning in a bottle.
6.9
The hockey version of “Major League”… about a decade before “Major League.” A lot less polished, but just as much ridiculousness, charm, and laughs. I had forgotten just how off the rails this movie gets, but for those who love the game of hockey there’s an undeniable charm about it… in between cringe moments that remind you that the movie was made almost 50 years ago.
A fun classic film night at the theater with this one!
7.9
What a way to kick off the theatrical releases for the year!
If this is a sign of things to come, 2024 is going to be an amazing year for horror films.
For all the folks who put in a pool because they never felt it safe to go back in the water after the events of “JAWS,” I have some bad news for you. It’s also not safe in your pool. Especially when it’s spring fed. Magic pools always have a catch. Look no further than “Hot Tub Time Machine.”
The story, the execution of the scares, and THE SOUNDTRACK… everything here brings its a-game until the credits roll. With every twist and turn, you’re drawn further and further into the depths of this one. There was a wonderful charm of originality with this one that I deeply appreciated. The wholesomeness of the family and America’s pastime (baseball) as a central theme made the turn into darkness all the more striking. A home run to start the year for Blumhouse!
Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare 