1) THE DROP (R)
Fox Searchlight
RUSS
Moviegoers know the dark world of novelist Dennis Lahane from big screen adaptations of his works “Mystic River,” “Gone, Baby, Gone” and “Shutter Island.” “The Drop” is the latest journey into gloomy Lahane terrain, this time focusing on mob controlled money drops at low-end Brooklyn bars.
SHAWN
“The Drop” is a less than entertaining drama that’s intense and edgy. But offers very little emotional pay off with a story that isn’t cliche but a bit dull.
RUSS
Tom Hardy and the late James Gandolfini star in this tale full of moral conundrums. It’s gritty, realistic and as bleakly cynical as you might expect. But for those who don’t mind a walk on the dark side, the capable cast and sharp dialogue make “The Drop” worth dropping in for.
SHAWN
Yes, I like the cast and the dialogue was very good. Just wish each character had more to do and that the story had a bigger feel.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
2) DOLPHIN TALE 2 (PG)
Warner Brothers
RUSS
On the other end of the cinematic spectrum is “Dolphin Tale 2,” a sequel to the popular 2011 family flick inspired by the true story of a injured dolphin that rescuers fitted with a prosthetic tail.
SHAWN
You can’t deny the cuteness and sweet natured spirit of “Dolphin Tale 2” which is also completely forced and has no reason to exist other than to scoop additional money from families looking for completely safe and harmless entertainment for their children.
RUSS
All of the original cast members return for the continuing story of the bottle-nosed dolphin named Winter. The filmmakers work hard to find some drama in a very spare story and you don’t have to be clairvoyant to figure out how it’s all going to turn out. Still, “Dolphin Tale 2” is a sweet-natured movie that should have a broad appeal for animal lovers, their kids and grandkids.
SHAWN
It is all very appealing but nothing original or remotely exciting. Just our standard issue animal movie.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
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