Bad Santa 2 [2016]

One of the films biggest strengths is in its casting. The majority of the original cast returns (except John Ritter, Bernie Mac and Lauren Graham are truly missed) and all of the chemistry from the first film is still there. Kathy Bates who plays Willie's mother is a welcome addition to the cast and fits right into the filthy and vile atmosphere. Christina Hendricks is alright, but her character doesn't add too much to the film.

The biggest question about Bad Santa 2 is if it is in fact funny? For the most part, yes it is! A lot of the humor is reminiscence of the first film filled with crass, raunch, and insults galore. However, with none of the original writers returning this means that some of the wittiness of the first film is missing here.

Fueled by cheap whiskey, greed and hatred, Willie teams up once again with his angry little sidekick, Marcus, to knock off a Chicago charity on Christmas Eve. Along for the ride is ‘the kid’ - chubby and cheery Thurman Merman, a 250-pound ray of sunshine who brings out Willie’s sliver of humanity.

Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Christina Hendricks, Kathy Bates
Runtime: 1 hour, 34 minutes

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The Eagle Huntress 2016

"The Eagle Huntress" (2016 release from the UK; 87 min.) is a documentary about Aisholpan, a 13 yr. Mongolian girl, and her quest to become the first female eagle huntress. As the movie opens, we are introduced to the wide open spaces of western Mongolia, where eagles have been used for chasing "food and fur" for generations, but until now it was done exclusively by men. We get to know Aisholpan and her family. Her loving and doting dad has noticed his daughter's interest in eagle hunting and, against the better (?) thinking of certain other men in the local community, decides to train her. At this point we're 10 min. into the movie, but to tell you more of what's about to unfold would spoil your viewing experience, you'll just have to see for yourself how it all plays out.

A spellbinding true story about a 13-year-old girl on an epic journey to become the first female eagle hunter.

Starring: Daisy Ridley
Runtime: 1 hour, 27 minutes

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Pinocchio 2017

Now a part of the celebrated Walt Disney Signature Collection, the timeless story of PINOCCHIO inspires a new generation with its masterful animation, award-winning music, unforgettable characters and exclusive, all-new behind-the-scenes Bonus Extras! With his faithful friend Jiminy Cricket by his side, Pinocchio embarks on fantastic adventures that test his bravery, loyalty and honesty until he triumphs in his quest for his heart's desire: to become a real boy.

The one-two whammy of audience and critical indifference to "Pinocchio" and "Fantasia" killed Walt Disney's desire to experiment with the limits of animation in the 1940s. From then on, play it safe was his motto. This may be one of the greatest tragedies to beset popular American culture in the 20th century; despite the depths of pretension and kitch in "Fantasia," it was at least evidence of a spirited mind in pursuit of the unattained -- but "Pinocchio" must have broken old Walt's heart. There are visual effects in this movie that remained unchallenged until the digital age, and it's worth recalling that every single one of them was drawn by hand

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Manchester By The Sea 2017

The first time that I saw this film, I felt as if it was a bit overwhelming. I left the theater puzzled as to why it got such rave reviews. My initial thoughts were that it was too long, boring, and very depressing. With that said, I decided to give it another chance, and I'm extremely glad I did.

As for those wondering why I would want to subject myself to a film that I initially didn't like for a second time; it's because I like to keep an open mind. In the case of this film, I really wanted to get a better understanding of what it was all about. Having seen it again, I was better able to grasp the complexity of the characters.

If you absolutely hated it, I can understand your feelings. You might, however, want to give it another chance, as in the end my verdict is that it's a masterpiece. It's not a funny film, but it's down to earth and real.

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Tyler Perry's Madea on the Run 2017

Madea on the Run is by far the best Tyler Perry play I've seen and I've seen them all. There's always a positive message that renews your faith in whatever situation you're going through and your faith in God. He delivers it in this comedic way that is totally relatable without being preachy. As usual, the musical selections are outstanding (especially the Deborah Cox & Whitney Houston inspired "I Was Watching You" sung by Claudette Ortiz & Rhonda Davis). I haven't been the biggest fan of Tyler in the past few years as far as his TV dramas were concerned and that awful "Boo!" movie. But this play has restored my faith in him and in that he can produce high quality work. You owe it to yourself to rent and/or buy this DVD and experience a hilarious play with a heartfelt message. You won't regret it!

On the run from the law, Madea hides out at Bam’s house, thinking she will lie low.

Starring: Tyler Perry, Cassi Davis
Runtime: 2 hours, 13 minutes

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