3:44 am - February 25, 2025
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy
The endearing and slightly chaotic Bridget Jones (played by Renée Zellweger) returns in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, a sequel directed by Michael Morris. This time, Bridget is navigating life as a single mother after the death of her husband. The film sees her tackling the challenges of parenting while also exploring the dating world once again. Fans of the Bridget Jones series are no strangers to unexpected twists and turns, but the latest installment manages to recapture the perfect blend of humor, heart, and zaniness that made the original Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001) such a beloved classic.
The film’s ability to reconnect with its roots is a welcome surprise, offering a fresh yet familiar take on Bridget’s life. With its bubbly tone and emotional depth, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy is a heartwarming and entertaining addition to the series. It’s a reminder of why audiences fell in love with Bridget in the first place—and why her story continues to resonate. You can watch the film on Peacock.
Paddington in Peru
In Paddington in Peru, the charming and polite bear Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) embarks on a new adventure to find his Aunt Lucy in Peru. Directed by Dougal Wilson, the film introduces new characters, including a Reverend Mother (Olivia Colman) and a local river guide named Hunter Cabot (Antonio Banderas). While the sequel attempts to maintain the whimsical charm of its predecessors, it faces a significant challenge: living up to the magic of Paddington 2, which was largely elevated by Hugh Grant’s memorable performance.
Though Colman and Banderas bring their usual enthusiasm and energy to their roles, their performances can’t fully compensate for what’s missing. The film’s reliance on their antics feels forced at times, and the absence of Grant’s unique charm is deeply felt. Despite this, Paddington in Peru still offers moments of delight, especially for fans of the beloved bear. The film is currently in theaters, so be sure to catch it if you’re a Paddington enthusiast.
Captain America: Brave New World
Captain America: Brave New World marks a new chapter in the Marvel universe, with Anthony Mackie taking on the mantle of Captain America. Directed by Julius Onah, the film follows Mackie’s character as he becomes entangled in a dangerous plot involving a mysterious substance and an assassination attempt on the President (played by Harrison Ford).
Unfortunately, the film struggles to find its footing. The writing feels stiff, the ensemble lacks charm, and the visuals are uninspired. While Mackie does his best to carry the film, he lacks the charisma needed to elevate the poorly constructed narrative. The result is a disjointed and unengaging addition to the franchise, leaving fans underwhelmed. Captain America: Brave New World is currently in theaters, but it’s a missed opportunity for the Captain America legacy.
The Annihilation of Fish
The Annihilation of Fish is a romantic gem that has finally received its first theatrical release, 26 years after its festival debut. Directed by Charles Burnett, the film tells the story of Fish (James Earl Jones), a man who believes he is possessed by a demon, and Poinsettia (Lynn Redgrave), a woman who imagines a dead composer as her lover. Their unlikely romance blossoms under quirky and enchanting circumstances.
The film’s beauty lies in its subtlety and tenderness. Burnett’s direction is gentle yet powerful, and the performances by Jones and Redgrave are deeply moving. It’s a story about love’s ability to transcend eccentricities and bring people together. If you’re looking for a quiet, heartfelt romance, The Annihilation of Fish is a must-watch. It’s a testament to Burnett’s skill as a filmmaker and a reminder of the magic of unassuming love stories. The film is now in theaters.
La Dolce Villa
La Dolce Villa is a light and breezy romantic comedy directed by Mark Waters. The story follows Eric (Scott Foley), a father who travels to a small Italian village to stop his daughter from buying a rundown villa for just one euro. Instead of convincing her to abandon the purchase, Eric finds himself charmed by the villa, the villagers, and the local way of life.
The film is as predictable as it is delightful, offering a sweet and serene escape from the stresses of real life. With its picturesque setting, charming characters, and feel-good tone, La Dolce Villa is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a lighthearted, uplifting watch. It’s not a laugh-out-loud comedy, but it’s a warm and fuzzy tale that leaves audiences feeling happy. You can stream the film on Netflix.
Universal Language
Universal Language is a quirky and endearing surrealist comedy directed by Matthew Rankin. The film blends the influences of Iranian New Wave cinema with the setting of Winnipeg, Canada, creating a unique and offbeat narrative. While the film’s humor and style are niche, its charm is universal, making it a delight for both Canadians familiar with Winnipeg and fans of Iranian cinema.
Rankin’s approach is fresh and imaginative, combining cultural specificities in a way that feels both peculiar and wonderful. The film’s gentle humor and eccentricity make it a standout, even for viewers who aren’t well-versed in its influences. If you’re in the mood for something original and slightly unconventional, Universal Language is a hidden gem worth discovering. It’s currently playing in theaters.
The Gorge
In The Gorge, directed by Scott Derrickson, Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy star as two special agents stationed on opposite sides of a treacherous ravine. As they work together to bridge the physical and emotional gap between them, they develop a bond that evolves into romance. The film’s action-packed plot is complemented by the chemistry between its leads, who bring depth and seriousness to their roles, even as the story becomes increasingly absurd.
The real highlight of The Gorge is the dynamic between Teller and Taylor-Joy. Their performances elevate the film, making it more than just an elaborate action-romance. If you’re a fan of intense action sequences paired with heartfelt moments, this film is worth checking out. You can stream it on Apple TV+.
This summary captures the essence of six diverse films, each offering something unique to its audience. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming romance, a whimsical adventure, or a thought-provoking drama, there’s something here for everyone.