The Predator
Starring: Jacob Tremblay and Boyd
Holbrook
Rated R
Rated R
When
a young boy accidentally triggers the universe's most lethal hunters'
return to Earth, only a ragtag crew of ex-soldiers and a disgruntled
science teacher can prevent the end of the human race.
“The Predator” takes a good running
start at being a sequel to a franchise that has seen better days. The
film offers up some well-delivered and witty dialogue, humor and
better-than-expected action sequences.
But “The Predator” falls short of
it goal by not flushing out the script. The plot is too contrived and
the characters are under utilized. The film falls into the habit of
confusing gore with action, and although the film does have 'shock
value,' what the audience is left with is a stodgy and lackluster
attempt at a reboot that never embraces the spirit of the first film.
“The Predator” is likable, but its
only average fare at best.
It gets a C and is rated R.
A Simple Favor
Starring: Anna Kendrick and Blake
Lively
Rated R
“A Simple Favor,”
directed
by Paul Feig, centers around Stephanie, a mommy blogger who seeks to
uncover the truth behind her best friend's sudden disappearance from
their small town.
Although
this film spotlights two of my favorite actresses, Blake Lively and
Anna Kendrick, the story itself is a very unusual blend of comedy and
thriller which didn't sit well with the audience, as none of the
characters were particularly likable or invoked empathy from the
viewer.
Both Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively turn in dutiful performances, with Kendrick playing manic to Lively's detached femme fatale. But both women are oddly out of place as neither really compliment each other's performances in this cat and mouse movie.
“A Simple Favor” ends up a frustrating mystery movie with a slightly bitter after taste.
It gets a C and is rated R.
Both Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively turn in dutiful performances, with Kendrick playing manic to Lively's detached femme fatale. But both women are oddly out of place as neither really compliment each other's performances in this cat and mouse movie.
“A Simple Favor” ends up a frustrating mystery movie with a slightly bitter after taste.
It gets a C and is rated R.