Lightyear

Lightyear; Fine animation with several nods to space adventures past and present. Never cared for the character much and this doesn’t change anything but there’s mild fun to be had and a few great action moments. Missed seeing the usual Pixar short film beforehand; B

Noelle

Noelle; Chalk up another Christmas movie that merely exists as a reminder that it’s that time of year. It’s no classic like Elf, though it tries to be. Kendrick valiantly attempts to inhabit the spirit of Ferrell but the script doesn’t have enough originality or surprises; B-

The Great Buster

The Great Buster; Wonderfully compiles highlights of Keaton’s career w/o shying away from hard times. Narrative is structured to celebrate his genius, w/insights from a wide variety of industry players. For the uninitiated, it’s a perfect intro. For fans, it’s a great recap; A

Power Rangers

Power Rangers; As incoherent & ridiculous as any of the previous incarnations. Ripe for MST3K style riffing. Money spent shows but blows; D+

The BFG

The BFG; Welcome update to 1989 cartoon version of Dahl's silly bedtime tale. Worth seeing for a single tears of laughter inducing scene; B+

The Angry Birds Movie

The Angry Birds Movie; Surprisingly relevant depiction of colonization as told through physics video game bird characters. Who knew? B-

Finding Dory

Finding Dory; Tight storytelling, visually spectacular, heart warming return to form for Pixar. Finally a sequel worthy of the original; A

Inside Out

Inside Out; Emotional roller coaster that's light on laughs but big on tears. Heartfelt moments explore our mental health. Very poignant; A

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2; Instantly forgettable. Looks great, has laughs, recycles storylines. Another listless sequel; C+

Clear History

Clear History; Hoping it would be funnier, still nice to see the cast of David, Keaton, Hader, and others goofing off. Mildly funny fun; B-

Turbo

Turbo; Fun voice casting makes bare bones underdog tale seem entertaining. Wastes no time on plot holes as it races to 2 finish line; B-

Monsters University

Monsters University; Sullies the original only slightly while having fun with school movie tropes. It works but feels like a let down; B+