We’re in the midst of the summer blockbuster season. That means big, medium and small movies are being released all around us left and right. Five new ones come out this Friday; here’s how I rank them.
#1
WORLD WAR Z (Paramount Pictures)
1hr 56min
Rated: PG-13 (for intense frightening zombies sequences, violence and disturbing scenes.)
United Nations employee Gerry Lane (Pitt) traverses the world in a race against time to stop the Zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments, and threatening to destroy humanity itself.
To read my full review, click here.
Who’s it good for: although rated PG-13, I caution parents of young teens who may be a little scary of things to use discretion. During my screening a handful of teens were escorted out by their parents.
#2
THE EAST (Fox Searchlight)
1hr 56min
Rated: R ( for thematic elements, violence, some disturbing images, sexual content and partial nudity.)
An undercover agent for an elite private intelligence firm finds that her priorities change after an assignment to infiltrate an anarchist group known for executing covert attacks upon major corporations.
It’s a provocative film that hits you in the face with both sides of the argument to very relevant subjects that we face in today’s world. Subjects like FDA approved drugs that we are allowed to take even though they are deadly, and private firms that build toxic plants in rural areas that result in the destruction of not only the landscape, but also the residents, who for socioeconomic reasons, are not able to move. It’s deep.
It seems kind of heavy for a summer film. And at nearly two hours, a bit too long for the message it delivers.
Who’s it good for: everyone should take time to see this movie in their lifetime. It’s not entertaining, but more educational.
#3
MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (Disney/Pixar)
(includes “Blue Umbrella” short)
1hr 43min
Rated: G
A look at the relationship between Mike and Sulley during their days at Monsters University -- when they weren't necessarily the best of friends.
A little long for children’s movie. It isn’t belly laughing funny, but mostly cute. The plot/story is a good one.
Who’s it good for: Ranks number three because it is family friendly. But use parental discretion if you have children under 6 who may be scared easily or who are not yet aware of the idea of monsters and their ability to come from under the bed.
#4
THE KINGS OF SUMMER (CBS Films)
1hr 33min
Rated: R (for language and some teen drinking.)
Three teenage friends, in the ultimate act of independence. Two boys are frustrated with their parents, the third just wants to belong, decide to spend their summer building a house in the woods and living off the land. It’s their way of running away (a childish thing to do), but they see it as a transition to manhood.
This was the best coming of age story that I’ve seen in years. The parents are kitschy like the characters of Napolean Dynomite. The story was like...
I appreciated that there wasn’t a happy ending, but a real one. Despite the teens statement of discontent with their home life, when they returned...things remained the same.
The fresh-faced actors delivered excitement, emotion to their roles.
Who’s it good for: everyone over 14. Great for the young adult demographic.
#5
THE BLING RING (A24 Films)
1hr 27min
Rated: R (for teen drug and alcohol use, and for language including some brief sexual references.)
Inspired by actual events, a group of fame-obsessed teenagers use the internet to track celebrities' whereabouts in order to rob their homes. Remember when Paris Hilton, Audrina Patridge, Rachel Bilson, Orlando Bloom, Megan Fox and Lindsay Lohan’s homes were burglarized? This is the based-on-true-events film about that.
Don’t remember? Then don’t bother with this film. It will bore you if you see it out of context.
The acting was sufficient. The kids represent self-centered, out of touch with reality obsessed teenagers in the valley of Los Angeles, who idolized celebrities. You get the drift? That’s about it.
Who’s it good for: wait until it comes out on Netflix and if you are stuck in the house on a rainy day and have watched everything else.
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