The Hunger Games:The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes; Better than expected, yet still suffers from trying to find sympathy in an irredeemable character. It’s neat to see earlier versions of the Games, with fun takes from new cast members. Still grossly centered around child slaughter for sport; B-

Kung Fu Panda 4

Kung Fu Panda 4; The fight scenes continue to be amazingly fun to watch & the characters will always have appeal to them, but the story itself has played out & sequels at this point seem unnecessary. New additions are fine but don’t quite have the magic of the first three films. Let the panda be; B
 

The Woman King

The Woman King; Vibrant storytelling filled w/dynamic, powerful performances from the entire cast. Using time worn Hollywood tropes to tell a story about people and places oft ignored by Tinsletown breathes fresh, invigorating air into the triumphant tale. Refreshingly joyful; A
 

The Suicide Squad

The Suicide Squad; Knows how to effectively use each character & the stellar talent of the cast to the fullest. Over the top mayhem earns its R rating & offers plenty of laughs, shock and surprisingly powerful emotional moments. James Gunn‘s uninhibited talent is revelatory; A

Suicide Squad

Suicide Squad; Thoroughly entertaining. Many characters are riveting (Waller) while others are wasted. Too much while still not enough; B+

Ender's Game

Ender's Game; Surprisingly intense sci-fi w/serious themes & interesting effects. Concerned more about humanity than action & explosions; B+