6.8
Hey, I get it. “The Godfather” film itself, let alone the trilogy, is a serious commitment.
A solid studio comedy leveraging the endless charm of Toni Collette and a strong script riffing on “Under the Tuscan Sun” and “Eat, Pray, Love.”
9.1
A new favorite Christmas film for the yearly rotation!
This film envelopes you in a warmth that is palpable from beginning to end. I wanted to go see it a second time just to enjoy the ambiance for 2 more hours. Every single frame is steeped in unshakable charm. Each character is perfectly crafted to build and play off of each other, and get to the heart of matters of life and love that many others only dare to tiptoe around during their time on the screen. It’s a film of complicated people living for the unforeseen beauty in the complication of life. Similar to “Silver Linings Playbook” or “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” this film deserves every bit of critical praise and award season success it gets. From the cast, to the cinematography, to the soundtrack, this film fires on every cylinder and never lets up. I cannot recommend this one enough, and only wish it was more than a limited theatrical release that will hopefully gain traction and a possible re-release due to it’s success in home video release. As soon as I left the theater, I knew at least one of my top films of the year with this one.
7.6
Don’t let this inspire you to reach out to your ex. I had to hold strong, so… so do you! (Even if I get to hang out with the old friend I bicker with like an old married couple for the next couple of months)
The charm radiating from these two is infectious, and the story incredibly relatable. The premise of the film is so simple, yet so effective. I initially worried that it would be a bit dry, but I’ll admit I got a little misty-eyed by the time the credits rolled, even with the multiple fake out endings threatening to make me yell at the screen. It’s an “awe…” inducing rom-com that really packs a punch, and I thoroughly enjoyed the emotional roller coaster!
6.6
So… this one’s kind of dumb. I want to say “points for originality,” but it’s ripping off “Happy Death Day,” and 400 Christmas movies. It at least keeps the runtime tight, the kills bloody, and the hero’s relationship with her sidekick genuine and fulfilling. If you don’t expect too much, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I’m glad smaller films like this are getting a shot at the multiplex while the studios grapple with the fallout from the writers and actors strikes.
8.3
I’ll be damned, this was the best slasher I’ve seen since “Terrifier 2!”
The story may have been a little cheesy, but everyone bought into the bit and plays their parts to perfection. The killer has the perfect mix of flair, originality, and humor. There’s a twist ending. The kills are magnificent. I really have no notes. I had high expectations with Eli Roth at the helm, but even I couldn’t have expected this. I laughed until I cried, I almost spilled my popcorn jumping with fright. Wow. Just a seal of approval and suggestion you enjoy this one if you dare (and have the stomach for some good ol’ fashioned gore)!
Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare 