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KANSAS CITY, MO — 1. JACK THE GIANT SLAYER
(PG-13)
Warner Bros.
RUSS
Fee-fi-fo-fum, “Jack the Giant Slayer” left me numb. After viewing all of the expensive computer-generated giants in this competent but uninspired fantasy, I wish they’d chosen to use actors instead of effects.
Fee-fi-fo-fum, “Jack the Giant Slayer” left me numb. After viewing all of the expensive computer-generated giants in this competent but uninspired fantasy, I wish they’d chosen to use actors instead of effects.
SHAWN
“Jack the Giant Slayer” does rely a bit too much on CGI. This big budget endeavor directed by Bryan Singer does have its moments though. In this version of the fairytale an ancient war is reignited when Jack unwittingly opens a gateway between our world and a fearsome race of giants. I like the new twist and different spin put on this tale. Wish the tekkie side were stronger.
RUSS
The filmmaking on display is impressive, but the movie never quite achieves the offbeat charm it was apparently after. It’s like “The Princess Bride” but without the laughs. It’s modest fun, but not worth the movie’s gigantic $190 million budget.
The filmmaking on display is impressive, but the movie never quite achieves the offbeat charm it was apparently after. It’s like “The Princess Bride” but without the laughs. It’s modest fun, but not worth the movie’s gigantic $190 million budget.
SHAWN
The extras include an interactive experience, deleted scenes and gag reel.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
2. STOKER
(R)
Fox Searchlight
RUSS
“Stoker” is a creepfest from acclaimed Korean director Park Chan-Wook. Mia Wasikowska, Nicole Kidman and Matthew Goode star in this dark tale of mystery and horror. It’s loaded with showy, stylistic directorial gimmicks that help overcome the fact that it’s a suspense film with no discernable suspense.
“Stoker” is a creepfest from acclaimed Korean director Park Chan-Wook. Mia Wasikowska, Nicole Kidman and Matthew Goode star in this dark tale of mystery and horror. It’s loaded with showy, stylistic directorial gimmicks that help overcome the fact that it’s a suspense film with no discernable suspense.
SHAWN
So true. Not sure it’s that creepy though but extremly weird but also terribly predictable. Yes, it’s showy but all pointless and really not all that interesting. If you are going to invest your time there should be a payoff. No such luck with “Stoker.” I mean they try but fail. Sometime you gotta just tell the story.
RUSS: 2 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 1 Popcorn Bags
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