Movies I Watched in 2022
All the movies I watched in 2022.
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- DirectorEdson OdaStarsWinston DukeZazie BeetzBill SkarsgårdA reclusive man conducts a series of interviews with human souls for a chance to be born.6/10 - this film, which had a lot of potential and worked for plenty of people, explores really interesting territory (kind of a reverse Soul), but really dragged for the 2 hour runtime
- DirectorDenzel WashingtonStarsMichael B. JordanChanté AdamsJalon Christian1st Sgt. Charles Monroe King, before he is killed in action in Baghdad, authors a journal for his son intended to tell him how to live a decent life despite growing up without a father.7/10 - all the time jumps did not benefit the film and some sharper editing of the scenes would have elevated the film, but I did cry three separate times during it so it definitely will get you in your feels
- DirectorGuillermo del ToroStarsBradley CooperCate BlanchettToni ColletteA grifter working his way up from low-ranking carnival worker to lauded psychic medium matches wits with a psychologist bent on exposing him.7/10 - with classic Guillermo del Toro style and Oscar-worthy production design, there is a lot to be enchanted by in this remake that runs about 30 minutes too long and could benefit from a slightly clearer vision
- DirectorSean BakerStarsSimon RexBree ElrodSuzanna SonMikey Saber is a washed-up porn star who returns to his small Texas hometown, not that anyone really wants him back.6/10 - Simon Rex proves that he is certainly an actor capable of drama films and someone to take seriously, but as the credits abruptly began to roll, I could not help but ponder what the meaning of the film was and why I spent over 2 hours investing in it
- DirectorPaul Thomas AndersonStarsAlana HaimCooper HoffmanSean PennThe story of Alana Kane and Gary Valentine growing up, running around and going through the treacherous navigation of first love in the San Fernando Valley, 1973.7/10 - fans of HAIM will be delighted to see another of Alana Haim’s talents highlighted in this unconventional love story that may be a bit (okay, very) overhyped and falls into the same trap I’m noticing a lot this awards season of acclaimed writers/directors crafting an underwhelming and overall, dare I say unfulfilling story revolving solely around a setting and time period that fascinates them (also, I’m sorry but Bradley Cooper deserves ZERO awards buzz for this particular performance)
- DirectorSteven SpielbergStarsAnsel ElgortRachel ZeglerAriana DeBoseAn adaptation of the 1957 musical, West Side Story explores forbidden love and the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds.6/10 - while I have never been the biggest fan of West Side Story/Romeo and Juliet's story, I felt as though character development fell to the wayside and that the product was not the cinematic masterpiece it was hyped up to be (although Ariana DeBose gives ample evidence for why she is the future of Hollywood)
- DirectorWes CravenStarsNeve CampbellCourteney CoxDavid ArquetteA year after the murder of her mother, a teenage girl is terrorized by a masked killer who targets her and her friends by using scary movies as part of a deadly game.8/10 - if you’re like me, it may take more than the initial viewing to really appreciate how revolutionary this horror classic is and how it walks the fine line between satirizing and also revamping the horror genre with a satisfying third act twist
- DirectorWes CravenStarsNeve CampbellCourteney CoxDavid ArquetteTwo years after the first series of murders, as Sidney acclimates to college life, someone donning the Ghostface costume begins a new string of killings.6/10 - one of my favorite things about the Scream movies is the shocking killer reveals and while this one continues in its predecessor’s fashion, the killer reveal and film as a whole felt a a little less satisfying
- DirectorGarth JenningsChristophe LourdeletStarsMatthew McConaugheyReese WitherspoonScarlett JohanssonBuster Moon and his friends must persuade reclusive rock star Clay Calloway to join them for the opening of a new show.7/10 - while I do not think Sing 2 does anything to reinvent any wheels nor may it be the most memorable release, I had a lot of fun watching this music-filled, visually-stunning, and all-around fun flick that ranks as my favorite animated film of the year
- DirectorDerek DrymonJennifer KluskaStarsAndy SambergSelena GomezKathryn HahnAfter one experiment, Johnny turns into a monster and everyone else becomes human. Now it has to be seen whether they will be able to reverse this experiment.5/10 - as someone who usually really enjoys the Hotel Transylvania films, I was disappointed in the lack of jokes that landed and the missing spark of fun that I expect from this series
- DirectorWes CravenStarsDavid ArquetteNeve CampbellCourteney CoxWhile Sidney and her friends visit the Hollywood set of Stab 3, the third film based on the Woodsboro murders, another Ghostface killer rises to terrorize them.4/10 - while I love movies about filmmaking and Hollywood as much (probably even more) than the next guy, but if you didn’t grow up having seen this movie when it came out and are instead watching it for the first time now, I’m afraid you will be disappointed by the drastic fall in quality that this original trilogy end delivers
- DirectorWes CravenStarsNeve CampbellCourteney CoxDavid ArquetteTen years have passed, and Sidney Prescott, who has put herself back together thanks in part to her writing, is visited by the Ghostface Killer.5/10 - I was not as enthralled in this extension to the original trilogy which came off far too corny in my opinion and felt like it didn’t really elevate the series despite all the incredible new talent they added
- DirectorMatt Bettinelli-OlpinTyler GillettStarsNeve CampbellCourteney CoxDavid Arquette25 years after a streak of brutal murders shocked the quiet town of Woodsboro, Calif., a new killer dons the Ghostface mask and begins targeting a group of teenagers to resurrect secrets from the town's deadly past.8/10 - this talented new cast really bring it (even more than the legacy cast in my opinion) in this gripping "requel" (and if I'm honest, hopefully the final chapter in the series) that crosses the line of being too meta at times and borders on the line of greatness
- DirectorMichael GraceyStarsHugh JackmanMichelle WilliamsZac EfronCelebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.10/10 - while not perfect, this big screen movie musical extravaganza brings it on all fronts: dazzles the senses (visually stunning and boasts one of the best soundtracks in recent memory) and warms the heart
- DirectorStephen ChboskyStarsBen PlattJulianne MooreKaitlyn DeverFilm adaptation of the Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical about Evan Hansen, a high-school senior with social anxiety disorder, and his journey of self-discovery and acceptance after a classmate's suicide.9/10 - fans of the musical will rejoice at this faithful adaptation (a few songs excluded) of the Broadway smash that brings up important mental health topics and will get you to cry a time or two.
- DirectorTalia OsteenStarsMika AbdallaJake ShortFortune FeimsterAvery, a teenager with a tendency towards perfectionism, enlists her friend Larson to help her prepare for her first time with her long-distance boyfriend.6/10 - the cringe is real (some really bad dialogue and like 3 extended weird sexual “metaphor” screens) in this Hulu original film, but between that hilarious classroom scene (quadratic formula and all) and a surprisingly nuanced conclusion, this one managed to win me over
- DirectorSimon KinbergStarsJessica ChastainPenélope CruzBingbing FanWhen a top-secret weapon falls into mercenary hands, a wild-card C.I.A. agent joins forces with three international agents on a mission to retrieve it, while staying a step ahead of a mysterious woman who's tracking their every move.6/10 - rather than exclusively focusing on being the rarity of a female-led spy thriller and forgetting to build up a story, this film is mostly fun, has impressive action sequences, and is just as original as any other recent entry to the genre (side note: IMDb really needs to do a better job of vetting reviews for movies like these that attract a lot of trolls)
- DirectorAmy HeckerlingStarsAlicia SilverstoneStacey DashBrittany MurphyShallow, rich and socially successful Cher is at the top of her Beverly Hills high school's pecking scale. Seeing herself as a matchmaker, Cher first coaxes two teachers into dating each other.7/10 - this 90s classic has mostly withstood the test of time and Alicia Silverstone’s Cher remains an icon even in the 21st century, but for me, it is Stacey Dash’s Dionne who really steals the show
- DirectorHenry JoostAriel SchulmanStarsEmma RobertsDave FrancoEmily MeadeA high school senior finds herself immersed in an online game of truth or dare, where her every move starts to become manipulated by an anonymous community of "watchers."10/10 - beautiful colors and cinematography along with an entrancing thrill ride of a script makes this one worth several rewatches
- DirectorMike HodgesStarsClive OwenNick RedingNicholas BallAn aspiring writer is hired as a croupier at a casino, where he realizes that his life as a croupier would make a great novel.7/10 - the ending left a lot to be desired, but the buildup to that point was a slick and captivating British noir that mostly makes the most of its brief runtime
- DirectorCooper RaiffStarsCooper RaiffDylan GelulaAmy LandeckerA lonely college freshman forges a strong connection with his resident assistant during a fraternity party.8/10 - as someone who strongly and simultaneously related to both the protagonist and his RA, I felt like this film focused on the college experience with such nuance and truly packed a punch
- DirectorRic Roman WaughStarsStephan JamesJ.K. SimmonsAlexander LudwigFollows star quarterback who ignites a players strike hours before the biggest game of the year in order to fight for fair compensation, equality and respect for the student-athletes.8/10 - despite some clunky dialogue/story elements and me knowing next to nothing about college football, this fascinating dramatization of the ongoing NCAA debate is truly gripping and is empowered by the fantastic acting performances of Stephan James, J.K. Simmons, and most of all, Uzo Aduba (who in another universe would be Oscar-nominated for this emotionally riveting performance)
- DirectorMegan ParkStarsJenna OrtegaMaddie ZieglerNiles FitchHigh schooler Vada navigates the emotional fallout she experiences in the wake of a school tragedy. Relationships with her family, friends and view of the world are forever altered.8/10 - strong acting performances from Jenna Ortega, Will Ropp, Shailene Woodley (in her two brief but impactful scenes), and the rest of the cast bring to life this gripping, infuriating, and moving story of those affected by school shootings
- DirectorHenry JoostAriel SchulmanStarsEmma RobertsDave FrancoEmily MeadeA high school senior finds herself immersed in an online game of truth or dare, where her every move starts to become manipulated by an anonymous community of "watchers."10/10 - second time this year (see #19 for full review)
- DirectorFran KranzStarsJason IsaacsMartha PlimptonAnn DowdThe parents of both the shooter and one of the victims of a school shooting tragedy agree to meet and talk in an attempt to move forward.7/10 - hard to watch and packed with the powerful performances (particularly Ann Dowd’s), this debut film for writer/director Fran Kranz plays very much like something you would expect to see on the stage but I felt it was a little overlong at times
- DirectorReinaldo Marcus GreenStarsWill SmithAunjanue Ellis-TaylorJon BernthalA look at how tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams became who they are after the coaching from their father Richard.6/10 - Will Smith puts in a strong performance and the subject matter is touching and inspirational, but despite the good filmmaking at hand, I could not help but feel it was a little “paint-by-numbers” with almost every beat hit feeling expected and falling short of anything surprising
- DirectorTrish SieStarsGina RodriguezDamon Wayans Jr.Tom EllisA sports writer unused to relationships falls for a fling, leading her to reconsider playing the field in favor of commitment.*review redacted*
- DirectorLin-Manuel MirandaStarsAndrew GarfieldAlexandra ShippRobin de JesusOn the brink of turning 30, a promising theater composer navigates love, friendship and the pressure to create something great before time runs out.9/10 - a criminally underrated musical is brought to life in this stunning adaptation that features heartwrenching performances from Andrew Garfield, Alexandra Shipp, and Robin de Jesús, a fantastic soundtrack, and beautiful cinematography and craftsmanship
- DirectorJane CampionStarsBenedict CumberbatchKirsten DunstJesse PlemonsCharismatic rancher Phil Burbank inspires fear and awe in those around him. When his brother brings home a new wife and her son, Phil torments them until he finds himself exposed to the possibility of love.5/10 - maybe I just missed something but this western awards darling had literally nothing of interest happen in it’s over 2 hour runtime and the acting does not reach the heights of other performances this year
- DirectorMaggie GyllenhaalStarsOlivia ColmanJessie BuckleyDakota JohnsonA woman's beach vacation takes a dark turn when she begins to confront the troubles of her past.6/10 - strong performances from both Olivia Colman and Dakota Johnson ground this film, but I personally did not feel very connected to the story which made this one feel a little dry
- DirectorWes AndersonStarsBenicio Del ToroAdrien BrodyTilda SwintonA love letter to journalists set in an outpost of an American newspaper in a fictional twentieth century French city that brings to life a collection of stories published in "The French Dispatch Magazine".5/10 - starts off strong and interesting, but becomes more convoluting and disconnected when it kept shifting to different characters and I think it is just time to come to terms with the fact that Wes Anderson isn’t for me
- DirectorRoland EmmerichStarsHalle BerryPatrick WilsonJohn BradleyA mysterious force knocks the moon from its orbit and sends it hurtling on a collision course toward earth.6/10 - with the visuals of a true space blockbuster, this B movie features nonsensical dialogue, many many charcaters that serve absolutely no purpose, and an absolutely insane third act...but nonetheless, it's fun.
- DirectorStephen ChboskyStarsBen PlattJulianne MooreKaitlyn DeverFilm adaptation of the Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical about Evan Hansen, a high-school senior with social anxiety disorder, and his journey of self-discovery and acceptance after a classmate's suicide.9/10 - second time this year (see #15 for full review)
- DirectorCatherine CyranStarsDanica McKellarVictor WebsterBruce BoxleitnerAngie Dove, her father, and Detective Carter investigate murder, theft, blackmail and fraud at the museum.5/10 - the conclusion to the Matchmaker Mysteries trilogy gives you more of the same—fine enough for one watch, but nothing to write home about
- DirectorStacey N. HardingStarsJulie GonzaloRyan McPartlinEva TamargoWhen a beauty pageant creator is found dead, a savvy hairdresser works with a new detective and risks everything to clear the names of those she loves.6/10 - the two leads in this one did not really do much to elevate this story in my opinion, but I am interested to see what happens with that cliffhanger
- DirectorKenneth BranaghStarsKenneth BranaghPenélope CruzWillem DafoeWhen a murder occurs on the train on which he's travelling, celebrated detective Hercule Poirot is recruited to solve the case.8/10 - stylish adaptation of an Agatha Christie mystery features a truly all-star cast, but while enjoyable, nothing can even come close to the heights of Christie’s written word
- DirectorKenneth BranaghStarsTom BatemanAnnette BeningKenneth BranaghWhile on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.7/10 - it is seriously hard to go wrong with a story penned by Queen of Mystery Agatha Christie, but what Kenneth Branagh’s Death on the Nile lacks in substance, it makes up for with style
- DirectorLauren HadawayStarsIsabelle FuhrmanAmy ForsythDiloneA college freshman joins her university's rowing team and undertakes an obsessive physical and psychological journey to make it to the top varsity boat, no matter the cost.6/10 - I was really anticipating this coming-of-age drama about college rowing and despite standout performances from Isabella Fuhrman, Dilone, and Amy Forsyth, this felt a little repetitive and underwhelming
- DirectorMark WilliamsStarsLiam NeesonAidan QuinnTaylor John SmithTravis Block is a government operative coming to terms with his shadowy past. When he discovers a plot targeting U.S. citizens, Block finds himself in the crosshairs of the FBI director he once helped protect.5/10 - as an unsuspecting fan of Mark Williams/Liam Neeson’s last team-up Honest Thief, I was somewhat excited to check out this one which promised an interesting premise which the feature film only partially delivered (but a shout-out is in order for a strong performance from Emmy Raver-Lampman as the journalist exposing the corruption)
- DirectorKat CoiroStarsJennifer LopezOwen WilsonMalumaMusic superstars Kat Valdez and Bastian are getting married before a global audience of fans. But when Kat learns, seconds before her vows, that Bastian has been unfaithful, she instead decides to marry Charlie, a stranger in the crowd.7/10 - the screenplay had some faux pas and was not particularly laugh out loud funny, but this movie (and it’s fantastic soundtrack) had me thanking the heavens that the theatrical rom com is back (and in true fashion with rom-com queen Jennifer Lopez)
- DirectorJason ReitmanStarsCarrie CoonPaul RuddFinn WolfhardWhen a single mom and her two kids arrive in a small town, they begin to discover their connection to the original Ghostbusters and the secret legacy their grandfather left behind.7/10 - while it was a nice and unexpected surprise to see Freaky’s Celeste O’Connor (glad they are contributing to get more mainstream work) and the wonderful Olivia Wilde make prominent appearances in this nostalgia-driven continuation of the original series, it is going star McKenna Grace who brings some much needed heart to this mostly worthwhile entry to the franchise
- DirectorJoel CoenStarsDenzel WashingtonFrances McDormandAlex HassellA Scottish lord becomes convinced by a trio of witches that he will become the next King of Scotland, and his ambitious wife supports him in his plans of seizing power.5/10 - self-indulgent telling of one of my favorite Shakespeare plays is shot in a really distracting and bizarre way, but at least Corey Hawkins gets a chance to show off his acting chops
- DirectorSian HederStarsEmilia JonesMarlee MatlinTroy KotsurAs a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) Ruby is the only hearing person in her deaf family. When the family's fishing business is threatened, Ruby finds herself torn between pursuing her passion at Berklee College of Music and her fear of abandoning her parents.7/10 - while I often really enjoy movies that are able to highlight communities that do not often get their fair share of time in the spotlight (in this case, children of deaf adults and the deaf community as a whole) and that is the strongest part of this film, but for me, this story lacked some of the magic that others found in it
- DirectorGuillermo del ToroStarsBradley CooperCate BlanchettToni ColletteA grifter working his way up from low-ranking carnival worker to lauded psychic medium matches wits with a psychologist bent on exposing him.7/10 - second time this year (see #3 for full review)
- DirectorWill GluckStarsEmma StoneAmanda BynesPenn BadgleyWhen Olive lies to her best friend about losing her virginity to one of the college boys, a girl overhears their conversation. Soon, her story spreads across the entire school like wildfire.10/10 - nothing but good things to say about this movie and Emma Stone crushed it
- DirectorWill GluckStarsMila KunisJustin TimberlakePatricia ClarksonA young man and woman decide to take their friendship to the next level without becoming a couple, but soon discover that adding sex only leads to complications.9/10 - really captivating and surprisingly funny - Will Gluck truly is a great director
- DirectorFrank CoraciStarsAdam SandlerDrew BarrymoreWendi McLendon-CoveyAfter a bad blind date, a man and woman find themselves stuck together at a resort for families, where their attraction grows as their respective kids benefit from the burgeoning relationship.10/10 - absolutely hysterical and one of my favorite movies of all time
- DirectorEvan GoldbergSeth RogenStarsJames FrancoSeth RogenRandall ParkDave Skylark and his producer Aaron Rapaport run the celebrity tabloid show "Skylark Tonight". When they land an interview with a surprise fan, North Korean dictator Jong-Un Kim, they are recruited by the CIA to assassinate him.6/10 - this movie has definitely been more impactful in terms of its unprecedented global attention due to the film's subject matter rather than the quality of its comedy, but nonetheless, Lizzy Caplan, Diana Bang, and unfortunately, even James Franco turn in strong performances in this one-of-a-kind flick (that is if you can get past the often offensive and highly stereotypical Asian [mostly Korean] representations throughout the film)
- DirectorJon WattsStarsTom HollandZendayaBenedict CumberbatchWith Spider-Man's identity now revealed, Peter asks Doctor Strange for help. When a spell goes wrong, dangerous foes from other worlds start to appear, forcing Peter to discover what it truly means to be Spider-Man.9/10 - trading out the humor of its predecessors with true heart, this third installment in Tom Holland's Spider-Man films is admittedly the worst story-wise and is certainly flawed, but that can be forgiven with its well-orchestrated delivery of unabashed fan service.
- DirectorRuben FleischerStarsTom HollandMark WahlbergAntonio BanderasStreet-smart Nathan Drake is recruited by seasoned treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan to recover a fortune amassed by Ferdinand Magellan, and lost 500 years ago by the House of Moncada.6/10 - Tom Holland proves that he is a formidable action star when not in Spidey latex, but he really deserved a better script than this screenplay which could have used several more workshop sessions
- DirectorJake KasdanStarsCameron DiazJason SegelJustin TimberlakeA lazy, incompetent middle school teacher who hates her job, her students, and her co-workers is forced to return to teaching to make enough money for breast implants after her wealthy fiancé dumps her.8/10 - funny movie from the always charming Cameron Diaz that isn't perfect at every turn, but when it works, it really works.
- DirectorShawn LevyStarsRyan ReynoldsWalker ScobellMark RuffaloAfter accidentally crash-landing in 2022, time-traveling fighter pilot Adam Reed teams up with his 12-year-old self for a mission to save the future.5/10 - Shawn Levy/Ryan Reynolds’ follow-up to the surprisingly good Free Guy is a bit lackluster with a confusing and not fully thought-out sci-fi plot that is at its best in its moments of heart (but could have gone so much further with it)
- DirectorTom VaughanStarsCameron DiazAshton KutcherRob CorddryA man and a woman are compelled, for legal reasons, to live life as a couple for a limited period of time. At stake is a large amount of money.6/10 - fans of Cameron Diaz (or Ashton Kutcher) will find things to love with this 2000s rom com, but I was honestly disappointed at how rather lackluster this turned out to be (I don’t think I laughed once - thank God the romance was pretty good) given the caliber of talent we are dealing with here
- DirectorMimi CaveStarsDaisy Edgar-JonesSebastian StanJojo T. GibbsAfter quitting dating apps, a woman meets the supposedly perfect man and accepts his invitation to a romantic weekend getaway, only to find that her new paramour has been hiding some unusual appetites.8/10 - Daisy Edgar-Jones, Sebastian Stan, and Jojo T. Gibbs all turn in solid performances in this unique, wonderfully weird, slightly repulsive, and entrancing horror comedy (with a fantastic payoff) that is perfect for fans of fellow Searchlight release, Ready or Not
- DirectorReid CarolinChanning TatumStarsChanning TatumRyder McLaughlinAavi HaasTwo former Army Rangers are paired against their will on the road trip of a lifetime. Briggs (Channing Tatum) and Lulu (a Belgian Malinois) race down the Pacific Coast to get to a fellow soldier's funeral on time.5/10 - nothing too much of note here in this fairly by-the-book dog dramedy (that nonetheless got me a little teary-eyes), but there are some problematic jokes and themes that audiences should know of before going in (definitely a soft-conservative film)
- DirectorMatthew VaughnStarsRalph FiennesGemma ArtertonRhys IfansIn the early years of the 20th century, the Kingsman agency is formed to stand against a cabal plotting a war to wipe out millions.5/10 - unable to reach the heights of the rest of the Kingsman series, this prequel definitely is a prime example of style over substance with impressive action sequences but a rather bland WWI-centered plot
- DirectorMartin WoodStarsCandace Cameron BureNiall MatterMarilu HennerA murder investigation is reignited in a house that is considered haunted by the Lawrenceton locals and where years ago Aurora and Sally, as teenagers, discovered a body.7/10 - if I’m honest many of the latest Aurora Teagarden mysteries have teetered on bland, but this one provides a nice, new jolt of life into the series thanks to an interesting parapsychology-centered plot and a genuinely well-written mystery
- DirectorPeter HutchingsStarsLucy HaleAustin StowellDamon DaunnoResolving to achieve professional success without compromising her ethics, Lucy embarks on a ruthless game of one-upmanship against cold and efficient nemesis Joshua, a rivalry that is complicated by her growing attraction to him.6/10 - better than your average direct-to-PVOD romance (not that that necessarily says much), but I felt like this one just lacked any semblance of good pacing which made it hard to fall for or care about the couple (sorry Lucy Hale!)
- DirectorTerry IngramStarsLacey ChabertKevin McGarryAutumn ReeserFollows longtime friends who find a mysterious, antique veil fabled to unite its bearer with her true love.5/10 - while I love all 3 of the lead actresses and the idea of having a series that involves all 3 of them, I just don't know about this whole wedding veil premise.
- DirectorTerry IngramStarsAutumn ReeserPaolo BernardiniLacey ChabertEmma (Autumn Reeser) travels to Italy to teach and research a wedding veil said to bring its owner love. While there, she meets Paolo (Paolo Bernardini), the son of a local lace-making family.5/10 - usually I am not a big fan of the Hallmark dramas where they go abroad, but Autumn Reeser did fairly well with this one but it still felt a little too gimicky and not worth the talent of the 3 ladies involved
- DirectorJoe WrightStarsPeter DinklageHaley BennettKelvin Harrison Jr.Too self-conscious to woo Roxanne himself, wordsmith Cyrano de Bergerac helps young Christian nab her heart through love letters.8/10 - while he may not be a great singer, Peter Dinklage makes for a great and long-awaited leading man (and deserved that fifth Best Actor slot) who grounds this film that has moving music and stellar cinematography
- DirectorTerry IngramStarsAlison SweeneyVictor WebsterLacey ChabertTracy meets Nick in the third installment of the trilogy, and he helps her save an original draft of The New Colossus in exchange for her helping him run his restaurant. Tracy begins to feel uneasy as they get closer.6/10 - the series ends off on a high and will certainly be one to check out if you enjoyed the rest of the series as there are a lot of bows tied together and storylines completed
- DirectorMatt ReevesStarsRobert PattinsonZoë KravitzJeffrey WrightWhen a sadistic serial killer begins murdering key political figures in Gotham, Batman is forced to investigate the city's hidden corruption and question his family's involvement.7/10 - Zoë Kravitz makes for the best Catwoman to date, but the hype far outweighed the end product in this overly dark, technically sound, but not so mysterious 3 hour slog that could have been much more efficient and even more entertaining
- DirectorDomee ShiStarsRosalie ChiangSandra OhAva MorseA thirteen-year-old girl named Mei Lee is torn between staying her mother's dutiful daughter and the changes of adolescence. And as if the challenges were not enough, whenever she gets overly excited she transforms into a giant red panda.7/10 - the best Pixar movie since Onward (which wasn’t that long ago but feels like an eternity) brings a little bit maturity and nuance, but I still feel like that third act could have been workshopped a bit more
- DirectorRyûsuke HamaguchiStarsHidetoshi NishijimaTôko MiuraReika KirishimaA renowned stage actor and director learns to cope with a big personal loss when he receives an offer to direct a production of Uncle Vanya in Hiroshima.6/10 - if you are able to stick out the three hours, you might find some true wisdom, but I found myself more bored than anything else and felt like we could have cut out at least an hour of rehearsal scenes and not really have lost anything
- DirectorKrystin Ver LindenStarsKeke PalmerCommonJonny Lee MillerA slave in the antebellum South escapes her secluded plantation only to discover a shocking reality that lies beyond the tree line.4/10 - I love Keke Palmer, but I’m unfortuantely afraid that this one turned out to be a rather huge miss in that it just was not in any way developed enough to be a full feature film and the arc just felt so lackluster
- DirectorRodrigo GarcíaStarsMila KunisCarla GalloGlenn CloseA mother helps her daughter work through four crucial days of recovery from substance abuse.8/10 - while I head and understand some of the arguments about this not being the most accurate in terms of its portrayal of addiction, for those less attached to the topic, it does an excellent job of showing the struggle that those who are addicted go through and Mila Kunis really brings out her acting chops.
- DirectorTi WestStarsMia GothJenna OrtegaBrittany SnowIn 1979, a group of young filmmakers set out to make an adult film in rural Texas, but when their reclusive, elderly hosts catch them in the act, the crew find themselves fighting for their lives.5/10 - while it was nice to see Brittany Snow on the big screen again after the Pitch Perfect movies and it continued Jenna Ortega’s Hollywood takeover, this utterly bizarre, inconsistent, and incomplete attempt at a “sexy slasher” starts off strong but a few moments aside, becomes utterly laughable in the last 45 minutes
- DirectorCraig BrewerStarsEddie MurphyArsenio HallShari HeadleyThe African monarch Akeem learns he has a long-lost son in the United States and must return to America to meet this unexpected heir and build a relationship with his son.5/10 - in my opinion, it holds up just as well as the original Coming to America (which I am not a big fan of) thanks in part to Leslie Jones’ scene-stealing moments
- DirectorRuben FleischerStarsTom HollandMark WahlbergAntonio BanderasStreet-smart Nathan Drake is recruited by seasoned treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan to recover a fortune amassed by Ferdinand Magellan, and lost 500 years ago by the House of Moncada.6/10 - second time this year (see #50 for full review)
- DirectorJonas Poher RasmussenStarsDaniel KarimyarFardin MijdzadehMilad EskandariFLEE tells the extraordinary true story of a man, Amin, on the verge of marriage which compels him to reveal his hidden past for the first time.7/10 - mostly engaging story is most memorable for its unique storytelling style that transcends standard, more mainstream animation and really pushes the boundaries of cinema
- DirectorJeff TremaineStarsJohnny KnoxvilleSteve-OChris PontiusAfter 11 years, the Jackass crew is back for another crusade.1/10 - I am very much in the minority here, but watching grown men with the maturity of fifth graders in a feature length movie was not enjoyable for me (basically if it doesn’t look like a must-see based on the trailer, please skip it)
- DirectorPaolo SorrentinoStarsFilippo ScottiToni ServilloTeresa SaponangeloIn 1980s Naples, young Fabietto pursues his love for football as family tragedy strikes, shaping his uncertain but promising future as a filmmaker.5/10 - I am glad some are enjoying it and it is technically well-made, but this film failed to grip me and my interest dwindled quickly after we got through the first third
- DirectorAaron NeeAdam NeeStarsSandra BullockChanning TatumDaniel RadcliffeA reclusive romance novelist on a book tour with her cover model gets swept up in a kidnapping attempt that lands them both in a cutthroat jungle adventure.6/10 - I’m kind of living for Daniel Radcliffe’s trend of villain roles and Sandra Bullock is as fabulous as ever, but I was disappointed by the lack of good laughs in this mash-up of Uncharted and The Proposal
- DirectorPawo Choyning DorjiStarsSherab DorjiUgyen Norbu LhendupKelden Lhamo GurungAn aspiring singer living with his grandmother in the capital of Bhutan dreams of getting a visa to move to Australia.6/10 - heartwarming story about a teacher finding his place and his classroom and illustrates just how valuable our teachers are, but it lacked the extra punch it needed to take it from good to great for me
- DirectorPedro AlmodóvarStarsPenélope CruzMilena SmitIsrael ElejaldeThe story of two mothers who bond in unexpected way after giving birth the same day.8/10 - utterly captivating and enchanting, this powerful story is led by Penélope Cruz at her absolute best and it is my favorite Almodóvar film that I have seen to date
- DirectorJoachim TrierStarsRenate ReinsveAnders Danielsen LieHerbert NordrumThe chronicles of four years in the life of Julie, a young woman who navigates the troubled waters of her love life and struggles to find her career path, leading her to take a realistic look at who she really is.7/10 - I was honestly expecting more from this buzzy Norwegian drama that in my opinion, had a stellar start but only a serviceable conclusion which soured what could have been a truly great film
- DirectorDaniel EspinosaStarsJared LetoMatt SmithAdria ArjonaBiochemist Michael Morbius tries to cure himself of a rare blood disease, but he inadvertently infects himself with a form of vampirism instead.6/10 - I don't know what all the fuss is about with this one when the quality matches that of either Venom movie and while I didn't love the visual design of the vampires, I thought the cinematography, VFX, sound design, and Adria Arjona (who is now on my “Actors to Watch” list) really elevated the relatively weak story
- DirectorKenneth BranaghStarsTom BatemanAnnette BeningKenneth BranaghWhile on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.8/10 - second time this year (see #37 for full review)
- DirectorMichael BayStarsJake GyllenhaalYahya Abdul-Mateen IIEiza GonzálezTwo robbers steal an ambulance after their heist goes awry.7/10 - this is probably the best “elevated popcorn flick” that I have seen since 2018’s fellow Universal release, Skyscraper, in that delivers action, laughs, and heart, but while the cast as a whole is very strong, it is really Eiza González who steals the show and shows just how heroic EMTs really are.
- DirectorKat CoiroStarsJennifer LopezOwen WilsonMalumaMusic superstars Kat Valdez and Bastian are getting married before a global audience of fans. But when Kat learns, seconds before her vows, that Bastian has been unfaithful, she instead decides to marry Charlie, a stranger in the crowd.7/10 - second time this year (see #40 for full review)
- DirectorJeff FowlerStarsBen SchwartzJames MarsdenJim CarreyAfter discovering a small, blue, fast hedgehog, a small-town police officer must help him defeat an evil genius who wants to do experiments on him.7/10 - I was shocked by how fun and just overall well-done this family-friendly video game adaptation was and will definitely watch it again
- DirectorJeff FowlerStarsJames MarsdenJim CarreyBen SchwartzWhen the manic Dr. Robotnik returns to Earth with a new ally, Knuckles the Echidna, Sonic and his new friend Tails is all that stands in their way.6/10 - inferior to its surprisingly strong predecessor, this sophomore entry in the video game franchise doubles down on CGI characters and pushes its human characters to the wayside (well except for Jim Carrey’s Dr. Robotnik who saps all the comedy from this script with how much he overdoes it)
- DirectorDaniel KwanDaniel ScheinertStarsMichelle YeohStephanie HsuJamie Lee CurtisA middle-aged Chinese immigrant is swept up into an insane adventure in which she alone can save existence by exploring other universes and connecting with the lives she could have led.7/10 - while I didn’t not like it (I mean how could you dislike it when it brings together Michelle Yeoh, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jenny Slate, and Harry Shum Jr.?), but this beloved sci-fi version of Sliding Doors feels needlessly convoluted and only won me over with a touching ending
- DirectorGabriele MuccinoStarsGerard ButlerJessica BielDennis QuaidA former sports star who's fallen on hard times starts coaching his son's football team as a way to get his life together. His attempts to become an adult are met with challenges from the attractive football moms who pursue him at every turn.5/10 - I love me an early 2010s Sony rom com probably more than the next person, but this one was not funny and just does not hold up to amount to anything worthwhile, let alone more than one viewing
- DirectorDavid YatesStarsEddie RedmayneKatherine WaterstonAlison SudolIn 1926, magizoologist Newt Scamander arrives in New York during his worldwide tour to research and rescue magical creatures as something mysterious leaves trails of destruction in the city, threatening to expose the wizarding world.8/10 - as a long time devotee of the Harry Potter franchise, I was a tad disappointed in this great, not fantastic extension of the Wizarding World that focused a bit too much on the creatures and a little too little on the human connections that form the backbone of the franchise (I know it’s in the title, but no one thinks magical creatures when they hear Harry Potter)
- DirectorDavid YatesStarsEddie RedmayneKatherine WaterstonDan FoglerGellert Grindelwald plans to raise an army of wizards to rule over non-magical beings. In response, Newt Scamander's former professor, Albus Dumbledore, seeks his help to stop him.9/10 - despite continuing to lack the magic of the original eight films, hardcore fans will continue to find a lot to love in this Deathly Hallows Part 1-esque prequel sequel
- DirectorRawson Marshall ThurberStarsDwayne JohnsonNeve CampbellChin HanA security expert must infiltrate a burning skyscraper, 225 stories above ground, when his family is trapped inside by criminals.7/10 - tense and gripping action thriller that is occasionally too formulaic
- DirectorDavid YatesStarsEddie RedmayneJude LawEzra MillerAlbus Dumbledore knows that Gellert Grindelwald is moving to take control of the wizarding world. Unable to stop him alone, he asks Newt Scamander to lead an intrepid team on a dangerous mission.8/10 - while I am afraid that those who felt the last film had too much exposition will have the same problem with the newest iteration, thus far from perfect extension to the original series continues to add to the history preceding the events that we all know and love, and I for one just hope that we get at least 1 more film to wrap it up
- DirectorAnthony C. MetchieStarsNikki DeloachAndrew W. WalkerJaycie DotinA Colorado caterer and single mom, Goldy Berry teams with detective Tom Schultz to identify the ingredients that led to the mysterious death of her friend, finding that everyone in Elk Park hides a secret.6/10 - pretty good start to what is presumably a new mystery series on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries with capable leads in Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker and an interesting mystery
- DirectorPhillip NoyceStarsVal KilmerElisabeth ShueRade SerbedzijaSimon "The Saint" Templar (Val Kilmer), is a thief for hire, whose latest job to steal the secret process for cold fusion puts him at odds with a traitor bent on toppling the Russian government, as well as the woman who holds its secret.6/10 - action thriller that offers you a little something different and some true 90’s nostalgia even if the plot is not as gripping as other, better espionage thrillers
- DirectorTom GormicanStarsNicolas CagePedro PascalTiffany HaddishMoviestar Nick Cage is channeling his iconic characters as he's caught between a superfan and a CIA agent.6/10 - after seeing the trailer and hearing the raves out of SXSW, I was expecting the cult classic successor to Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, but sadly this film lacked few if any true punchlines and was quite the slog
- DirectorSammi CohenStarsRowan BlanchardAuli'i CravalhoIsabella FerreiraAn aspiring young artist joins her high school track team and later discovers what real love feels like when she finds herself falling for an unexpected teammate.7/10 - despite the odds and a story that felt very TV movie, some moments really worked in this feature that is among American High’s better works with good chemistry among the cast (despite the behind-the-scenes drama)
- DirectorWill GluckStarsMila KunisJustin TimberlakePatricia ClarksonA young man and woman decide to take their friendship to the next level without becoming a couple, but soon discover that adding sex only leads to complications.
- DirectorAlex HardcastleStarsRebel WilsonAngourie RiceMary HollandA cheerleading stunt gone wrong landed her in a 20-year coma. Now she's 37, newly awake and ready to live out her high school dream: becoming prom queen.
- DirectorJanus MetzStarsGoksin ErdemliKasia MaderaChris PineVeteran CIA agent Henry is reunited in Vienna with his former colleague and lover Celia.
- DirectorJudd ApatowStarsPaul RuddLeslie MannMaude ApatowPete and Debbie are both about to turn 40, their kids hate each other, both of their businesses are failing, they're on the verge of losing their house, and their relationship is threatening to fall apart.7/10 - an interesting story filled with good character dynamics is truly hindered by the way that this movie is marketed: it should really be considered a dramatic comedy, not a straightforward comedy and going in with that viewpoint will make it a much more pleasant experience
- DirectorRiley StearnsStarsKaren GillanAaron PaulBeulah KoaleA woman opts for a cloning procedure after she receives a terminal diagnosis but when she recovers her attempts to have her clone decommissioned fail, leading to a court-mandated duel to the death.7/10 - 2022 is turning out to be the year of oddly charming dance sequences (between this and the similarly surprisingly good Fresh), but in all seriousness, this dystopian tale that features a whole lot of Karen Gillan is thoroughly captivating and thought-provoking
- DirectorStuart McDonaldStarsVictoria JusticeAdam DemosLuca Asta SardelisIt follows a hard-driving LA wine-company executive who travels to an Australian sheep station to land a major client and there she ends up working as a ranch hand and sparking with a rugged local.7/10 - I am certainly a sucker for Hallmark-style easy romance movies and am a Victoria Justice devotee so this movie was pretty much made for me, but I think overall, fans of either will find a lot to enjoy here
- DirectorRichard WongStarsEugenio DerbezSamara WeavingMax GreenfieldA movie star enlists a parking valet at a Beverly Hills restaurant to pose as her lover to cover for her relationship with a married man.6/10 - Eugenio Derbez movies seem to always be a hit or miss for me, but this one managed to land right in the middle for me—a pleasant enough one-off watch but nothing I’ll truly remember