KANSAS CITY, Mo —
**HYDE PARK ON HUDSON (R)**
RUSS
Bill Murray’s sharp portrayal of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Laura Linney’s subdued turn as his cousin and lover Daisy, provide the saving grace of this otherwise dull biopic.
SHAWN
Yes, that’s the very weird thing about “Hyde Park on Hudson.” The performances really are engaging. Watching Bill Murray magically bring Franklin Roosevelt to life is engaging and Laura Linney for my money is the most gifted actress working today not named Meryl Streep but the movie is a bore and awkwardly unwatchable.
RUSS
It’s beautifully produced but never as compelling as it needs to be.
SHAWN
It just doesn’t work. Which is too bad because Bill Murray has never been better. Talk about a wasted opportunity. Extras include a commentary with the director and producer , A look Inside “Hyde Park on Hudson” featurette, and a First Days featurette.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 2 Popcorn Bags
**KILLING THEM SOFTLY (R)**
RUSS
“Killing Them Softly: is a brutally violent and cynical gangster flick starring Brad Pitt as a hit man who has the task of knocking off three dumb criminals who rob a mob-run poker game.
SHAWN
Brad Pitt is a huge movie star but man is he slumming in this low rent and misguided crime drama.
RUSS
This territory is the same usually mined by filmmakers like Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino, and while it’s not up to their standards, Andrew Dominik’s decadent R-rated shoot-‘em-up is a smart and stylish work.
SHAWN
This movie is neither smart or stylish. It’s dumb and crude. But is biggest problem is the story. Why do I care? And Brad Pitt tries so hard not to be Brad Pitt he almost completely fades from the procedings.
RUSS
The movie’s attempt to draw parallels between the underworld and American business and politics is a bit heavy-handed, though.
SHAWN
It’s just stupid and forced. Extra’s include The Making of Killing Them Softly and deleted scenes.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 1 Popcorn Bag
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