1) MAN OF STEEL (PG-13)
RUSS: It’s not a bird, it’s not a plane…and thankfully, it’s not a turkey. But with a super budget of over $225 million, Hollywood should have given us a SUPER Superman movie, right? Well, “Man of Steel” isn’t super…but it’s not a Kryptonian bomb, either.
The cast is strong, including Henry Cavill as Clark Kent and Amy Adams as Lois Lane. Russell Crowe, Diane Lane and Kevin Costner deliver solid support.
But director Zach Snyder establishes an oppressive tone in this noisy and overlong reboot that’s mostly devoid the sense of fun we’ve come to expect from the strange visitor from another planet. Plus, some of Superman’s actions go against his heroic code of ethics that the comics have adhered to for 75 years.
“Man of Steel” has some terrific moments, so when it’s good, it’s very good. But the visually dazzling movie fights a never-ending battle against comic book weariness. Still, any movie with a line like, “I’m from Kansas. That’s about as American as you can get,” can’t be all bad.
Shawn calls it, “Long and uninteresting. This movie’s Kryptonite is editing and story progression.”
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 2 Popcorn Bags
2) TURBO (PG)
RUSS: “Turbo” is a beautifully rendered and entertaining computer animated movie about a snail who dreams of competing in the Indie 500…and through some strange twists of fate, gets his wish. The strong voice cast includes Ryan Reynolds, Paul Giamatti and Samuel L. Jackson. It’s predictable, but some clever moments and a zippy pace help “Turbo” make it to the finish line.
Shawn says “‘Turbo’ is tailor made for the very young, but the story will connect with everyone. Nothing groundbreaking in the animation department, but fun.”
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags
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