The Dink (2026)

 

I felt obligated to see this one as an avid pickleballer. The opening premise and character introductions were actually pretty good, but it descended into lame tropes from there. 

Rating: C-

Redbelt (2008)

 

I wasn't sure what to expect from a David Mamet fight film. Or maybe I did, since there was plenty of drama, emphasis on characters, and everything felt like it could be acted out on a stage. Not sure I bought the ending. 

Rating: C+

Self Reliance (2023)

Loved the concept. The setup in the first third of the film was excellent. Anna Kendrick was cute and fun. I just wish they had committed to the story and had a few more dangerous encounters that were less corny. A slow reveal to his family and friends would have been funny and cathartic. 

Instead, the game became too much of a joke without any real consequences for breaking the rules. I would have loved to see the viewers perspective–those tuning into the dark web D.O.G. show. The final act was all over the place. Real shame. 

Rating: C

Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018)

This psychedelic animated spin-off took preposterous into another dimension. If you like watching a dozen lava lamps have an orgy with a ridiculous plot to match, it seems you’ve bought into the hype and are pretending to love this movie. I feel sorry for you.

Rating: D-

Paper Heart (2009)

A quirky, original romantic comedy mockumentary. I think that covers all the bases. The movie itself is fairly entertaining, but it's the special features that actually tie everything together. Some of the funniest and most revealing moments are from the cutting room floor.

Rating: C

Let’s Be Cops (2014)

Largely sloppy writing reminiscent of a mediocre sitcom, minus the laugh track. A tragic case of writers believing they are funnier than they really are. It’s rampant in Hollywood.

Rating: D-

Jurassic World (2015)

I’ve enjoyed all the popcorn flicks in this series. They are complete escapism, especially when watched on the big screen. The story is always the same, but you watch for the incredible dinosaur action and booming sound.

Rating: C

Get Him To The Greek (2010)

A mediocre road trip film with plenty of potholes. Mildly funny.

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+