'Red One' Divides the Critics

         On November 15, 2024, Amazon MGM Studios released 'Red One', which has earned predominantly negative reviews from critics and a score of 34% on Rotten Tomatoes at the time of this writing. In the film, "After Santa Claus -- Code Name: RED ONE -- is kidnapped, the North Pole's Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world's most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas." The ensemble cast includes J.K. Simmons, Kiernan Shipka, Lucy Liu, Kristofer Hivju, Nick Kroll, and Bonnie Hunt. Read the full review round-up below.

        Avi Offer of NYC Movie Guru says, "Painfully unfunny, witless, over-produced and tonally uneven mess with an uninspired and convoluted plot that's too silly for adults and too dull for kids. It's one of the worst Christmas movies since Jingle All the Way."

        Fran Chico of Fotogramas was more impressed, stating, "Chris Evans reveals himself as a great comic relief actor, demonstrating his greatest range alongside the ex-fighter." Continuing, "'Red One' has all the Christmas movie clichés, including a cheesy and endearing message, and is an entertaining mix of genres and veiled references to the previous works of its protagonists, from 'Fast and Furious' to the DC and Marvel universes, but it works best as a parody of those action movies in which two law enforcement officers have to put up with each other until, little by little, they become inseparable. The contrast and the inside jokes between Callum and Drift in their adventure against the clock is undoubtedly the best and the only thing that saves, in the end, the film and Christmas." 

Photo by Louise Smith on Unsplash

       Dan Bayer of Next Best Picture writes, "In the days leading up to its release, many online have expressed confusion that “Red One” is a theatrical release, given how much it looks and feels like a film designed for streaming. Those people aren’t necessarily wrong – “Red One” has the kind of digital gloss and background-viewing pacing that marks most streaming releases. At a reported budget of $250 million, though, no film should look this bad, let alone feel this lackluster. But at this point, we know what to expect from these kinds of big-budget Hollywood releases, which includes a lot of dodgy CGI hidden under cinematography that’s either dotted with lens flares or so dark you can barely see anything, movie stars who are more of a brand than a performer coasting on their name recognition and charisma, and a tongue-in-cheek tone that keeps telling you to have fun instead of actually being fun. At this point, it’s clear that these aren’t bugs but features of Streaming Age Hollywood Content. The fact that “Red One” can’t fully commit to being as weird as its wildest ideas are is all the proof you need that its makers see it more as a piece of product than a piece of art. Not every film has to be art, but it’d be nice if they could make product that had more life to it than this empty exercise in Christmas franchise starting."

'Brothers' Divides Critics

         On October 10, 2024, with a streaming release on October 17, 2024, Amazon MGM Studios released 'Brothers', which has earned a mixed reception from critics, currently holding at 46% on Rotten Tomatoes. In the film, "the story of a reformed criminal (Josh Brolin) whose attempt at going straight is derailed when he reunites with his sanity-testing twin brother (Peter Dinklage) on a cross-country road trip for the score of a lifetime. Dodging bullets, the law, and an overbearing mother along the way, they must heal their severed family bond before they end up killing each other." Read the full review round-up below.

       Peter Debruge of Variety says, "With Palm Springs, Barbakow... found fresh wisdom in the overplayed Groundhog Day formula. Brothers also resembles countless films that have come before but lacks the original spin or improv-ready leads that might have set it apart." Adding, "While the entire ensemble comes across fully committed to roles that are well beneath them, it’s not at all clear what the point was in presenting the Moke and Jady characters as twins. Two weeks ago, a different Prime original — that one a tepid thriller called “Killer Heat” — featured identical twins who use their matching looks to switch places. That may be the oldest trick in the book, but it makes more sense than “Brothers,” which does nothing especially unique with the premise." 

Photo by Sebastian Enrique on Unsplash

       Justin Lowe of Hollywood Reporter notes, "Josh Brolin and Peter Dinklage play mismatched siblings with heavy jaws in Max Barbakow’s second feature, which finds him trading the subtler comic shadings of Palm Springs for ham-fisted humor, to disappointingly diminishing effect." Continuing, "If their appearances never before suggested a family resemblance, Brothers will now inevitably link Brolin and Dinklage, who find fertile terrain for their less-appreciated comedic talents in the slippery sibling dynamic between the estranged brothers. Close proves to be inspired casting as the underhanded and unrepentant Cath, who shows barely any indication of maternal concern for her sons in a quest to get her hands on the emeralds."

       Leigh Paatsch of Herald Sun writes, "Brolin takes a little longer than usual to hit his stride here – largely as a result of playing so radically against his usual type – but soon rises to the occasion." Concluding, "Without giving too much away, it won’t be too hard to identify where Brothers might have benefited from a leaner, meaner approach. Just take a closer look at any scene involving Brendan Fraser as the corrupt prison officer who wants a cut of Jady and Moke’s next job. Fraser’s continual mugging and shouty line readings undercut the movie time and time again. (It’s almost hard to believe now the same guy won a Best Actor Oscar less than two years ago.) However, when the focus is purely on Dinklage and Brolin, Brothers swiftly snaps back to the shape it should have held all along. Dinklage remains a fascinating actor, always able to establish the essence of a character in a matter of seconds."

'Blink Twice' Reviews: "This concocted blend of societal commentary and genre makes “Blink Twice” a must-watch for those looking for a good time at the movies with some substance to their storytelling."

         On August 23, 2024, Amazon MGM Studios releases 'Blink Twice', which has received predominantly positive reviews from critics, currently holding fresh at 83% on Rotten Tomatoes. In the film, a millionaire in the technology industry (Channing Tatum) invites a cocktail waitress (Naomi Ackie) to his private island. What starts off as paradise soon becomes her nightmare. The ensemble cast includes Simon Rex, Geena Davis, Christian Slater, and Kyle MacLachlan. Read the full review round-up below. 

        Matt Neglia of Next Best Picture writes, "This concocted blend of societal commentary and genre makes “Blink Twice” a must-watch for those looking for a good time at the movies with some substance to their storytelling." Continuing, "Although the side characters are not given equal balance, Ackie and Tatum make a meal out of their roles, bringing audiences along for the ride in different ways. Ackie’s portrayal of Frida as a strong anchor, providing her with strength and a sense of awareness, makes her more intelligent and resilient than most characters in similar situations. She’s not a helpless victim but a beacon of hope in a perilous situation, endearing her to the audience and making her very easy to root for as she slowly pieces together what is really happening on the island. Tatum, who is also a co-producer on the film and Kravitz’s real-life fiance, is given one of his best roles to date as a wealthy billionaire who seems only to be concerned with everyone having a good time on his island while he attempts to rehabilitate his image with the public. As the film progresses, we see a more sinister side emerge of a man completely detached from reality, and Tatum plays it flawlessly, further showcasing his range in what has been an exciting time in his ever-evolving career."

       BJ Colangelo of Slashfilm notes, "Blink Twice" often plays like the Tether (as in Jordan Peele's "Us") of Rian Johnson's "Glass Onion," the crooked funhouse mirror reflection of a movie audiences feel like they can predict from the start, but Kravitz's narrative voice is so strong, she's practically screaming not to be underestimated. When "Blink Twice" revealed its true face, an uncontrollable gasp was pulled from deep within me. This isn't just a bold creative swing, it's a disorienting, rage-filled foot kicking down the door of expectation and commandeering all expectations. For as dark as the story becomes, the film still has such a twisted sense of humor that feels right at home with Kravitz's sensibilities and social commentary. The pacing might be frustrating for some, and the intensely bleak material might be too much to handle, but that's precisely what makes "Blink Twice" so interesting. Nothing about the film plays it safe, and it's very clear that Kravitz refused to go anywhere other than the jugular."

        Emmanuel Noisette of The Movie Blog praises the film, stating, "As the story intensifies, Ackie’s portrayal becomes increasingly relatable, drawing the audience into her character’s emotional turmoil. Channing Tatum also delivers what may be his best performance to date. His charm and allure are palpable, making his character’s darker side all the more impactful. Tatum convincingly embodies the kind of person who can draw others into his orbit, only to reveal a more unsettling truth beneath the surface." Adding, "While Blink Twice is undoubtedly compelling, it’s not without its flaws. The pacing, especially in the first half, may feel slow for some viewers. The story takes its time to build, which is necessary for the eventual payoff, but could be a test of patience for those expecting a faster-paced thriller. However, the wait is undeniably worth it, as the film’s third act delivers in spades."

       Mae Abdulbaki of Screen Rant says, "For a first-time feature filmmaker, Zoë Kravitz has a sharp and clear creative vision, and is able to execute it with immense precision." Concluding, "Blink Twice has everything going for it, but it’s bolstered further by an emotionally effective and layered performance by Ackie, who grounds the film as the waves of the story move around and through her. She is a force to be reckoned with, bringing levels of pain, confusion, excitement and determination that make us fear for her life and root for her at the same time. Ackie is perfect as Frida, giving an awards-worthy performance. In her character exists a sharp reality that this could happen to any woman, making her situation all the more harrowing."

Photo by Simon Ray on Unsplash

'Jackpot!' Reviews: "A sloppy screenplay that’s otherwise propped up by whatever improv the cast could bring and surprisingly funny fight scenes."

         On August 15, 2024, Amazon MGM Studios released 'Jackpot!', which has received a mixed reception from critics, currently holding at 41% on Rotten Tomatoes. In the film, the lottery system in the future is a bit darker as killing the winner before sundown equates to taking their winnings. When an unwitting recipient has the ticket, she must partner with an amateur lottery protection agent in exchange for a cut of the winnings. Unfortunately, his enemy is also trying to track her down with his eyes on the cash prize. The ensemble cast includes John Cena, Simu Liu, and Awkwafina. But what did the critics say? 

       Alissa Wilkinson of New York Times says, "Jackpot!” does not quite stick the landing. Directed by Paul Feig from a screenplay by Rob Yescombe, the movie sustains an admirably zany energy, though its jokes often feel underwritten."

        Jake Coyle of Associated Press was less impressed, stating, "It’s amiably disordered but the high-concept always feels like a ridiculous goof, and its predictable machinations grow increasingly tiresome. Still, this is the rare film where you can say Machine Gun Kelly is a surprisingly perfect tonal fit." Continuing, "Feig, the director of “Bridesmaids,” “Spy,” “The Heat” and 2016’s “Ghostbusters,” may be more adept at balancing broad comedy and action sequences than any other working filmmaker. But the big-screen comedy heyday he was once so central to has largely faded in recent years, as studios have grown disappointingly reluctant to gamble with laughs in theaters. It’s hard not to see “Jackpot!” — which pales next to Feig’s better films — as an example of this diminished era for theatrical comedies. Then again, as Awkwafina notes in “Jackpot!” Hollywood stardom isn’t what it once was. Now, she says, even wrestlers and YouTubers can do it."

Photo by Adrian Swancar on Unsplash

        Marco Vito Oddo of We Got This Covered writes, "Jackpot!' delivers a delicious deranged mix of dark comedy and thrill ride. While its silliness may not appeal to all, the film's clever premise, strong performances by Awkwafina and John Cena, and well-timed humor make for a great experience." 

       Peter Debruge of Variety notes, "A sloppy screenplay that’s otherwise propped up by whatever improv the cast could bring and surprisingly funny fight scenes." Adding, "Jackpot!” demands a trickier kind of physical comedy than Awkwafina’s been asked to deliver before, and even though her character is supposed to read as clumsy and incompetent, it takes considerable skill to pull off the routines that action choreographer James Young has in store for her. Given his WWE background, Cena is far more accustomed to making fake fighting seem entertaining, but once again reminds of his good-sport sense of humor (as the scene-stealer did earlier this year in “Ricky Stanicky”)."

'One Fast Move' Reviews Divides the Critics

         On August 8, 2024, 'One Fast Move' was released by Amazon MGM Studios to a mixed reception from critics, currently holding at 25% on Rotten Tomatoes. In the film, an aspiring professional motorcycle racer, with support from his love interest, estranged father, and a local businessman, works to realize his dream. The ensemble cast includes K.J. Apa, Eric Dane, Maia Reficco, Austin North, and Edward James Olmos. Read the full review round-up below.

Image by DC Studio on Freepik

        John Serba of Decider writes, "The plot sets up Dean as a villain of sorts, a selfish opportunist and Bad Advice Dad with a massive ego, across from Wes’ angsty angst-ridden angstiness, but they’re both generic and underwritten, boilerplate arcs showing little interest in defying cliches. You will not be surprised to learn that Abel and Camila are positive forces in Wes’ life, but they can’t offer the rush and thrills and potential for motorcycle-based glory that toxic Dean does – so Wes follows the trail of psychotherapeutic bread crumbs right into the mouth of despair. Until he doesn’t, of course. The underlying theme here is that Wes needs to get the feel of racing with a pro bike on a pro track, and he can’t do that until he sheds his many burdens – the weight of his bad-boy past, the burdens Dean foists upon him, his tendency to think too much while racing instead of just racing. This is admittedly a rather generous reading of the text; in truth, the movie doesn’t go any deeper than a quarter-inch puddle in the oil pan." Adding, "SKIP IT. One Fast Move circles the same old sports-flick track, round and round, round and round."

        Daniel Hart of Ready Steady Cut praises the film, stating, "One Fast Move is an easy pick for a popcorn movie night. There’s enough good drama and substance to justify the genericness." Adding, "The character Wes works, too. Despite his flaws, you root for him. He gives off this “bad boy trying to make things right” vibe, which only emphasizes why an attractive woman like Camila would want him. She sees his potential rather than his past. She wants him to be a certain man, but as the audience, you can see what he may become through his father."

        Todd Jorgenson of Cinemalogue says, "Without mustering enough horsepower for adrenaline junkies, this motorcycle saga also charts a bumpy off-track road to redemption and reconciliation. Wes (K.J. Apa) is a hotheaded ex-con seeking a fresh start through racing his beloved bike. He reluctantly partners with his estranged father (Eric Dane), an alcoholic ex-racer whose misguided mentorship comes with ulterior motives. There’s also an obligatory rivalry to settle a grudge, a diner waitress (Maia Reficco) providing the love interest, and a wise old sage (Edward James Olmos) running the local repair shop. Although some of the racing sequences are exciting, the cliché-fueled screenplay runs out of gas well before the finish line."

       Frank Swietek of One Guy's Opinion notes, "It’s difficult to say which are more numerous—the cycles or the clichés—in Kelly Blatz’s movie about a young biker who aims to become a pro...a warmed-over retread of the kind of sports story we’ve seen many times before." Concluding, "One expects that, except for Apa devotees and motorcycle enthusiasts, the number of viewers for “One Fast Move” will be modest, too."