Emily The Criminal (2022)

 

Aubrey Plaza does a fine job, but the script is dreary. Desperate people doing desperate, illegal things. There are very few light moments to hold off the despair. 

Rating: C-

Monsters University (2013)

It was ok. While the original was inventive and genuinely funny, this prequel garnered a few modest laughs and was mildly entertaining. Pixar is no longer the trusted brand it once was.

Rating: C

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

Like nothing you've seen before. It's hip, funny, quirky, and a bit juvenile. Video games infiltrate every part of the production. I really liked the characters and their quick witted interactions.

A miss for me was the focus of the entire film—Scott fighting the 7 evil ex's. If I want to see cartoonish fights, I can watch schlock like Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers. Still, it was refreshing to see something different brought to screen.

Rating: C+

Safety Not Guaranteed (2012)

A gem of an indie. A time travel movie that isn’t really about time travel at all. Funny, hip, and smart without being condescending. Definitely a contender for Top 10 Films of the Year.

Rating: B+

Funny People (2009)

I really liked the first half to three fourths of this movie. I was seriously toying with giving out a rare "A" grade. It needed a stronger 3rd act, but still solid overall. I actually like Adam Sandler in almost every serious role he's been in—it's the comedies I hate. Spanglish. Liked it. Punch Drunk Love. LOVED IT. Here he's great too. I call it the Robin Williams Phenomenon. Terrific supporting cast, just like all Judd's movies.

Rating: B