Films: March 10 - 16

Predator (1987)
The Order (2024) 
Twister (1996) 
Twisters (2024)
Somewhere In Queens (2023) 
Jackpot! (2024) 
Woman Of The Hour (2024) 
Swing Into Romance (2023) 
Hanna (2011) ///

Predator (1987) Fierce action framed and staged with propulsive relish as aggressive Arnold Schwarzenegger and unrepentant military crew are deceived into attack on guerrilla camp in Central America, before finding themselves prey for alien hunter's futuristic tech. Uncomplicated, breathless thrills allied to energetic Alan Silvestri score.


The Order (2024) Maintaining austere, tense atmosphere, subdued imagery conjures 1980s true-life setting as wearied FBI agent Jude Law's investigation of bank robberies turns to pursuit of unflinching Nicholas Hoult's white supremacist ambition to take down government. Drama simmers rather than provokes.


Twister (1996) Immensely enjoyable, concept-driven narrative delights in expansive, fluid visuals and Oklahoma ripping visual effects as reluctant Bill Paxton is once more intoxicated by obstinate Helen Hunt and band of adrenaline-fueled storm chasers. Broad stroke characters freshened by appealing cast and sense of humor.


Twisters (2024) Variation on original captures engagingly chaotic spirit thanks to dynamic visuals and appealing leads, as instinctive Daisy Edgar-Jones overcomes past tragedy to join Oklahoma storm chasers and find empathy with conceited video blogger Glen Powell. Visceral  thrills scaled with blunt emotion.


Somewhere In Queens (2023) Small-scale slice of life maintains family intimacy for both dramatic and comedic effect as modest Ray Romano sees chance for withdrawn son to achieve college scholarship and break from local frustrations. Solidly framed relationships even if resolution feels unconvincing.


Jackpot! (2024) Returned to near-future Los Angeles to resurrect acting career, Awkwafina reluctantly needs protection by regretful John Cena when she wins $3.6 billion lottery and discovers anyone who kills her can claim the fortune. Mismatched rhythms combine bludgeoning satire and inane physical / verbal comedy with desperately unfunny results.


Woman Of The Hour (2024) Factual basis of serial killer's appearance on 1978 dating show features hopeful actress Anna Kendrick's tense encounter, while parallel strands compellingly detail murderous Daniel Zovatto. Tightly controlled with sparks of dark humor, concentration on cultural theme tends to dissipate narrative drama.


Swing Into Romance (2023) Visiting bucolic, small-town home, practical Danica McKellar needs to return to dancing roots to enter competition and save family store as well as learn to trust widower David Haydn-Jones. Bland visuals and flatly staged drama unrelieved by weary dance and predictability.


Hanna (2011) Pitched in fever-dream of self-conscious visuals and broken narrative, reclusive teenage assassin Saoirse Ronan emerges from wilderness to face brutal CIA agent Cate Blanchett and discover true origins. Bold lead retains interest, yet off-beat approach eventually suffocates thrills.


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Films: April 7 - 13

Awake (2007)  My Spy The Eternal City (2024)  The Beekeeper (2024)  Libre (Freedom) (2024) The Fall Guy (2024)  The Divorce Party (201...