1. ABOUT TIME (R)
Universal Pictures
RUSS
Richard Curtis, the mind behind “Love Actually” and “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” returns with another schmaltzy bit of romantic fluff, a time-travel romance called “About Time.” It plays like a mash-up of “Groundhog Day” and “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” but it’s not nearly as successful as either.
SHAWN
Yes, but this movie is flat out entertaining. Time travel movies rarely work but this one is at least fun to watch. Thank you, Rachel McAdams. Standard bonus MBB material unless you are a Ellie Goulding fan.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
2. BAGGAGE CLAIM (PG-13)
Fox Searchlight
RUSS
A terrific, appealing cast is completely thwarted by a trite script in “Baggage Claim,” a romantic comedy that feels like it crash-landed out of a 50s time warp.
SHAWN
“Baggage Claim” is so bad. It’s worst than lost luggage. It’s actually amateurish to the point of being embarrassing.
RUSS: The movie’s tired and clichéd moments prevent it from ever taking off.
SHAWN
The combination of poor writing and over acting is so lethal in this movie. The special features include commentary with writer/director David E. Talbert and featurettes Fly Guys, Wing Men and The Story.
RUSS: 2 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 1 Popcorn Bag
3. DALLAS BUYERS CLUB (R)
Focus Features
RUSS
Strong performances by Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto give a big boost to “Dallas Buyers Club,” a true story about the early days of the AIDS crisis.
SHAWN
Yes, the performances are stronger than the movie but it’s still all pretty interesting even if it all falls apart at the end.
RUSS
Gritty and sometimes profane, “Dallas Buyers Club”is a realistic look at a difficult chapter in our recent history. It’s conclusion is abrupt, but expect Oscars for McConaughey and Leto for their skillful turns.
SHAWN
Yes, McConaughey and Leto are exceptional. They deliver a true actors showcase. Not many extras but you do get an exceptional feature that looks inside the Dallas Buyers Club.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags
4. FREE BIRDS (PG)
Relativity Media
RUSS
Sorry, but this cartoon about turkeys is one. Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson give voice to this misguided Thanksgiving flick, “Free Birds,” a time travel story about turkeys who go back to the original Thanksgiving to try to get turkey off the menu. It’s strictly for undemanding kiddies.
SHAWN
How do movies like this even get made? And the bonus material on the DVD is no bonus. Yes, this is one big turkey
RUSS: 2 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 2 Popcorn Bags
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