1. HORRIBLE BOSSES 2 (R)
Warner Brothers
RUSS
KC Homeboy Jason Sudeikis re-teams with Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jennifer Aniston for “Horrible Bosses 2,” the sequel to their bawdy 2011 hit. Instead of banding together to knock of their evil employers, Sudeikis, Bateman and Day conspire to kidnap the son of an investor who is trying to bankrupt their fledgling business.
SHAWN
“Horrible Bosses” was a pleasant surprise a couple of years ago. It was edgy funny, with somewhat dark tones with a killer out of type performance by Jennifer Aniston. “Horrible Bosses 2” is your typical comedy sequel. Not as funny and far less surprises than the original.
RUSS
To say that this movie is vulgar is a gross understatement. The goofy action is punctuated with blue ad-libs that are, like the first film, designed to shock. Is it distasteful? Yes, but if you enjoyed the first movie, you’ll probably laugh yet again. You’ll know exactly what you’re in for.
SHAWN
Everything actually feels completely forced. And instead of being a revelation Jennifer Anistons character is totally annoying. Everyone in this should be fired.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 2 Popcorn Bags
2. THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (PG-13)
Focus Features
RUSS
Stephen Hawking is undoubtedly the world’s most famous astrophysicist. The heartfelt drama “The Theory of Everything” is a biopic and love story that focuses on Hawking’s relationship with Cambridge coed Jane Wilde, their courtship and Hawking’s subsequent struggle with Lou Gehrig’s disease.
SHAWN
This real life drama about genius Stephen Hawking is more a actors showcase than a compelling movie. All of the real drama has been glossed over but Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking is so engaging it masks all flaws.
RUSS
Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones give terrific performances that provide the backbone for this touching romance. While Redmayne’s part is obviously the showiest, Jones is every bit as good in what is arguably the more difficult role, that of the supportive and patient spouse.
SHAWN
It’s all about the acting. Think of Eddie Redmayne as a young Daniel Day Lewis in “My Left Foot.” Yes, he’s that good and the real reason to check out the “The Theory of Everything.” Felicity Jones as his wife is solid. Too bad the movie isn’t.
RUSS
The emotions come from an honest place, so the tears are well earned in this beautifully produced drama. Smart and involving, “The Theory of Everything” proves it’s worth.
RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
3. PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR (PG)
DreamWorks
SHAWN
Clearly inspired by James Bond movies the “Penguins of Madagascar” is a blast of nothing but fun. The script is zany and the characters zannier. No parents die. No life lessons are taught. This is pure animated entertainment that will make both adults and kids chuckle.
RUSS: DID NOT SCREEN
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags
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