1) INTO THE WOODS (PG)
Walt Disney Pictures
RUSS
Disney’s beautifully produced version of Stephen Sondheim’s Broadway musical that turned classic fairy tales on their ears is dark and off-putting. It’s really not for kids, so it’s no family film.
SHAWN
Not sure I would call this sloppily produced and incoherent musical beautiful. More like laughable and misguided. Wow what tragic performances. But I do agree that this dark tale is not for kids or anyone with good taste.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 2 Popcorn Bags
2) UNBROKEN (PG-13)
Universal Pictures
RUSS
The amazing and harrowing true story of Olympian and WWII hero Lou Zamperini is lovingly directed by Angelina Jolie. While conventional, it’s a fitting tribute to a man with real fortitude.
SHAWN
“Unbroken” is a tad too conventional. While the story is engaging the execution is a pedestrian bore. Angelina Jolie’s tabloid exploits are way more exciting.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn
3) BIG EYES (PG-13)
The Weinstein Company
RUSS
Tim Burton tells the crazy true story of popular 60s artists Walter and Margaret Keane. It looks great on the screen but suffers from the miscasting of Christoph Waltz.
SHAWN
Yes, “Big Eyes” is directed by Tim Burton but it’s the least Tim Burton ever made. However, I found every single second fascinating and the performances riveting.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags
4) THE IMITATION GAME (R)
The Weinstein Company
RUSS
Benedict Cumberbatch is terrific in “The Imitation Game,” a beautifully written and engaging drama about the British man who broke the Nazi’s unbreakable Enigma code only to be persecuted for his homosexuality.
SHAWN
I agree that Benedict Cumberbatch delivers a solid performance but man was “The Imitation Game” a major bore.
RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
5) THE GAMBLER (R)
Paramount Pictures
RUSS
Mark Wahlberg is solid in this remake of the 1974 James Caan drama about gambling addiction. His character is so unlikable, however, that it becomes a burden to watch.
SHAWN
Unlikable character yes. Burden to watch no. Dope movie that has an exhilarating vibe.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
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