A New Release Roundup
In this post, I’m going to do something a little bit different and talk about a bunch of the best new release movies I've watched recently. Long-time subscribers to my channel know I'm a movie addict; I watch a ton of stuff, ranging from big new releases to smaller, offbeat films. Here’s some of the most notable watches.
Nicolas Cage's New Ventures
Let's start by diving into some Nicolas Cage movies, starting with Sympathy for the Devil. It's got that classic '90s, unhinged Nicholas Cage vibe, and while it may not be for everyone, Cage fans will likely enjoy it. The plot's a little bit slow but there's some flare to the camera work.
Then there's Dream Scenario, a quirky film where Cage shines as a college professor who becomes an accidental sensation in people's dreams worldwide. This one is a little slow paced and it's definitely weird but a unique take on fame and worth a watch, especially for Cage aficionados.
Joaquin Phoenix's Haunting Performances
Shifting gears, let's talk about Napoleon, directed by Ridley Scott, which didn't quite hit the mark for me. It focused on a lot of the wrong things and ultimately was just not a great historical drama.
However, Beau Is Afraid, directed by Ari Aster, offers a deeply disturbing yet thought-provoking experience. Phoenix's performance in this unsettling film is nothing short of captivating. Longtime subscribers know I love me some strange movies but heads up, this one may not be for everyone.
Overlooked Oscar Contender
While I've given up on the Oscars, I recently stumbled upon The Beasts, a Spanish film that deserves recognition. It's a gripping, mixed-language drama that delves into complex relationships and societal tensions. This hidden gem showcases stellar performances and compelling storytelling.
Prime Picks
Prime Video's recently-released Ricky Stanicky delivers laughs with a star-studded cast, including John Cena and Zac Efron. I would have been sorely disappointed if I had paid money to see this in a theater, but as a Prime video original comedy starring those guys, I was pleasantly surprised.
Meanwhile, the new Roadhouse reboot with Jake Gyllenhaal on Prime Video breathes fresh life into the classic, offering intense fights and some memorable lines from Conor McGregor. It kind of threads the needle in a beautiful way. It feels a lot like the original in all the ways that you would want and then feels updated and fresh in other areas like fight sequences.
Netflix Delights
On Netflix, Spaceman with Adam Sandler was well directed conceptually, though it started off on a foot I think most people are going to have trouble connecting with. It ends up dealing more with emotional trauma and relationships. That being said, there's still a small group of people who would absolutely love this movie whether they like Adam Sandler or not.
Damsel with Millie Bobby Brown was pretty excellent, but it is a movie geared towards a younger audience. This movie reminded me a little bit of a 1980s movie that I love titled the Dragon Slayer.
Family Fun
For family viewing, DreamWorks' Migration offers wholesome entertainment. The look is stunning. Nothing groundbreaking here but I think I enjoyed this one a lot more than most Pixar movies lately and Danny Devito always delights.
Orion in the Dark is another wholesome family movie. It is about a young boy who's afraid of everything, including the dark, which comes to life and teaches him how to conquer his fears. The dark is voiced by Paul Walter Hauser, one of the greatest actors working today.
Gritty Realism
On the darker side, and not for the kiddos, films like Red Right Hand and Saltburn deliver gritty thrills and intense performances.
The Passenger stands out with its gripping portrayal of a tragic mass-shooting and its aftermath. This disturbing and brutal small movie surely packs a punch and Kyle Gallner's performance is amazing.
“Fiction” and Epic Sci-Fi
American Fiction surprises with its blend of humor and poignant family drama. Jeffrey Wright shines in this thought-provoking exploration of identity and societal norms. It's a film that challenges conventions and delivers an impactful narrative.
I'll be pretty brief here because I don't have a lot to say about this movie that hasn't already been said but Dune Part II continues to dazzle audiences with its breathtaking visuals and compelling storytelling. It's a cinematic experience that demands to be seen on the big screen, and I mean IMAX, showcasing the best of modern filmmaking.
In conclusion, the cinematic landscape is rich with diverse offerings, from quirky indies to epic blockbusters. Check out my video below for more details on each of the above reviews. Whether you're a fan of niche films or Hollywood spectacles, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Keep exploring, keep watching, and until next time, happy viewing!
