Screening Room: “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” “Blended,” “Chef”

1. X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST (PG-13)

20th Century Fox

RUSS

Marvel Comics addicts, it’s been nearly a month since your last cinematic fix, but “X-Men: Days of Future Past” is finally here…and it was worth the wait.

SHAWN

It’s a super smart movie that succeeds because of a great plot device that’s really well executed. Nearly flawless in fact.

RUSS

Two time periods are crossed as we see the young and old versions of Professor X and Magneto join forces in a time-bending effort to save the future. Well acted, intense, stylish and shot through with welcome humor, “X-Men: Days of Future Past” is just what summer blockbusters are supposed to be.

SHAWN

Works best if you have seen all of the X-Men movies. But you won’t be a wallflower if you are new party. You’ll also enjoy the dance. Best X-Men movie to date? Maybe…

RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags

SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags

2. BLENDED (PG-13)

Warner Brothers

RUSS

Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore are paired for the fourth time in “Blended,” a broad, goofy and obvious family comedy, partly set on an African resort. Much of the humor is insipid and the efforts to tug on our heartstrings are awkward. At best, it’s harmless.

SHAWN

No, “Blended” is completely harmful and not funny. Shame on Adam Sandler for his racist and stereotypical portrayal of Africa and the African culture. It’s 2014 not 1914. So insensitive. Might as well had made a Tarzan movie.

RUSS: 2 Popcorn Bags

SHAWN: 0 Popcorn Bags

3. CHEF (R)

Open Road Films

RUSS

“Chef” is a delightful and smart comedy written and directed by its star, Jon Favreau.

SHAWN

It’s a small movie that has a big heart.  And food scenes that will make you want to slap your momma. That means the food looked good.

RUSS

Jon Favreau plays a culinary artist who loses his restaurant job and goes on a road trip with his young son in a food truck.

SHAWN

Hate that the movie is rated R. It’s a great father/son tale. That has a wonderful message.

RUSS

It has some material that earns it an “R” rating, which is too bad because it would otherwise be perfect for families. Eat first, or else you’ll be salivating at all of the luscious food on display.

RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags

SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags

ALSO OPENING THIS WEEK:

-“Fed Up” is a critical documentary about the food industry.

-“The Immigrant” is a 1920’s era period romantic drama starring Joaquin Phoenix and Marion Cotillard.

What’s our criteria for reviewing a film and awarding the popcorn bag ratings? Click here:  http://link.fox4kc.com/1fu5fMn