Inside Out 2

Inside Out 2; Presents a deeper story on account of its more fully realized and previously established roots, similar to the way Frozen 2 expanded into darker, more mature themes. Voice cast continues to blend beautifully while the depiction of abstract intangibles provides a gamut of emotions; A

Trolls Band Together

Trolls Band Together; The film no one asked for returns w/blender of pop tunes only mildly pleasing in the first place, hoping for a hit of nostalgic dopamine before realizing the songs are only tolerable in bite size form. Animation cuts corners to keep cash grab profitable; D

The One and Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan; Impeccable digital rendering of animals shows no expense was spared, but the F/X animation doesn’t have a story worthy of it. Voice cast is excellent and bring their best to what is a simple, true (??) story that seems to be more fantasy than fact; B-

Trolls World Tour

Trolls World Tour; Serviceable sequel doesn’t hit the heights of the original in terms of catchy hits & emotional stakes but offers plenty of fun new characters to the Troll cornucopia. Bloom is particularly excellent in the limited screen time she has. Harmless frivolous fun; 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-

Trolls

Trolls; Candy coloured animation pays tribute to 80s toy through music > story. Family fun in style of Seuss or Dahl, but not as good; B