Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5; How many Toy Storys are too many? Turns out 5. Coasting on nostalgia & introducing new characters that don’t have the likability of previous films, the formula is tired & no longer inspired. Franchise has been lifted by sum total of toys, but there’s little for most toys to do here; B-

Pinocchio

Pinocchio; Expertly crafted and filled with wonder and charm, an update or remake of a film oddly out of time. Hanks’ acting comes across hammy and ridiculous but the other cast members make the most of their roles. Many segments look good but not a wish we needed to (re)make; B

Elvis

Elvis; A great job conveying & situating Elvis’ cultural influence/(s) & impact for a generation who may not know a lot about him. Butler nails the performance in physical, musical & emotional ways. Some moments get too music video or montage heavy yet ultimately satisfying; B+

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm; A full display of comedy in all its forms cements Baron Cohen as an expert of satire, improvisational genius, & extreme character builder, never breaking concentration. With more heart than the 1st, but a little less surprise, this sequel satisfies; A-

Toy Story 4

Toy Story 4; Introduces some fun, new characters which only goes to show how much this series needs to be retired. Animation is top notch and would be better applied to new, original material. And Randy Newman’s music has overstayed it’s welcome by about 4 movies; B+

The Circle

The Circle; Stellar acting but too many ideas. Director can't find right tone or decide what the movie is. Compelling but unfulfilling; B-

Bachelor Party

Directed by:  Neal Israel
Starring:  Tom Hanks, Tawny Kitten, Adrian Zmed, George Gizzard
Running Time:  1h 45min

If there is a movie that leaves no question it was made in the eighties, it's this one!  It is unbelievable that Hanks actually went on from this to win back to back Oscars!  A typical teenage comedy with unintentionally hilarious eighties styles, this movie definitely provides laughs.  However, most of them are at the movie, not with the movie.  Hanks is surrounded by the stereotypical teenagers, preppie, nerd, drunkard, etc. and the plot is so lame I'm amazed that the movie actually lasted over an hour and a half.  Big laughs result from just how far the movie goes for laughs but all in all it's just an excuse to show a wild party and a number of women topless.  NO talent necessary to make this film.

Grade: D+