Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy
In this latest installment of the beloved Bridget Jones series, our endearingly chaotic heroine, played by Renée Zellweger, faces a new chapter of life as a single mother after the passing of her husband. Directed by Michael Morris, "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy" elegantly recaptures the delightful mix of humor and emotion that made the original "Bridget Jones’s Diary" a classic. The film offers a heartfelt exploration of Bridget’s journey, balancing her signature zaniness with poignant moments of growth and resilience. Available on Peacock, it’s a charming reminder of why we fell in love with Bridget in the first place.
Paddington in Peru
Directed by Dougal Wilson, "Paddington in Peru" sees our gentlemanly bear, voiced by Ben Whishaw, embark on a Peruvian adventure to find his Aunt. Along the way, Paddington encounters a Reverend Mother, played by Olivia Colman, and Hunter Cabot, a river guide portrayed by Antonio Banderas. While the film attempts to fill the void left by Hugh Grant’s absence, the new cast members bring their own brand of manic enthusiasm. Despite their efforts, the sequel struggles to match the magic of "Paddington 2." Still, it’s a charming watch, though it doesn’t quite live up to its predecessor. In theaters now.
Captain America: Brave New World
Anthony Mackie takes over the mantle of Captain America in this latest sequel, which follows a dangerous plot involving a mysterious substance and an assassination attempt on the President, played by Harrison Ford. Directed by Julius Onah, the film is marred by stiff writing, a lackluster ensemble, and slapdash visuals. While Mackie does his best, he faces an uphill battle in elevating a story that feels disjointed and poorly constructed. Despite its ambitious premise, "Captain America: Brave New World" falls short in delivering the excitement expected from a Marvel blockbuster. In theaters.
The Annihilation of Fish
This critically acclaimed romance, directed by Charles Burnett, makes its theatrical debut 26 years after its initial release. The film tells the story of Fish, played by James Earl Jones, who believes he’s possessed by a demon, and Poinsettia, played by Lynn Redgrave, who imagines a dead composer as her lover. A tender and modestly told tale, "The Annihilation of Fish" captures the transformative power of love with Burnett’s delicate touch. It’s a beautiful exploration of how two souls can find each other in the most unexpected ways. A must-watch for lovers of romantic drama.
La Dolce Villa
In this lighthearted romantic comedy directed by Mark Waters, Scott Foley plays a father who travels to Italy to dissuade his daughter from purchasing a villa. Instead, he finds himself enchanted by the village’s charm and its people. "La Dolce Villa" is a predictable yet delightful film, offering sweetness and a serene atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an uplifting escape. With its airy tone and feel-good ending, it’s a charming addition to the rom-com genre. Available on Netflix.
Universal Language
Matthew Rankin’s "Universal Language" is a quirky, surrealist comedy that blends the aesthetics of Iranian New Wave cinema with the setting of Winnipeg, Canada. The film humorously navigates cultural specificities, offering a unique viewing experience that delights both Canadian audiences and cinephiles familiar with Iranian cinema. Despite its niche appeal, "Universal Language" is a fresh and engaging watch, proving that sometimes the most unexpected combinations can create something truly special. In theaters now.
The Gorge
Directed by Scott Derrickson, "The Gorge" stars Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy as special agents on opposite sides of a dangerous gorge who begin to bridge their divide. The film combines action with romance, highlighting the strong chemistry between its leads. While the plot is over-the-top, the dynamic between Teller and Taylor-Joy keeps the story engaging. Available on AppleTV+, "The Gorge" is an action-packed romance that thrives on the performances of its leads.
