Some franchises have such a enduring, rich history that they become multi-generational institutions. With roots dating back to 1950, Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang certainly fit the bill, and with similarly veteran properties like Alvin and the Chipmunks being dusted off for a new generation, the release of The Peanuts Movie seems kind of inevitable in hindsight.
Continue reading Review: ‘The Peanuts Movie’ Stays True to Its Roots
It may have been the 23rd James Bond film, but for all intents and purposes, it’s easy to proclaim that Skyfall was the pinnacle of the franchise up to that point. After all, the film — directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Sam Mendes (American Beauty) — was the first in the series to rein in more than $1 billion worldwide and proved to be a widespread critical hit, bridging the gap between Daniel Craig’s gruff take on Bond and the traditional elements of the character and his world. With the level of pop cultural impact that Skyfall achieved, the success of Spectre seemed to be a foregone conclusion, as it reunites much of the cast and crew of its predecessor. Why then is the latest 007 adventure such a huge letdown?
Continue reading Review: ‘Spectre’ Is One Bond Mission You Can Decline
It’s official: Tom Hanks is America’s dad. For a minute there, those Father of the Bride films nearly sold us on Steve Martin, but somewhere between Forrest Gump and his new film, Bridge of Spies, Hanks locked down the All-American Father Figure Championship Belt. Perhaps it’s his affable, good-natured demeanor or just his near-superheroic script selection skills. Whatever the case may be, Hanks — guided by frequent collaborator Steven Spielberg — is at it again, standing up for what’s right so we don’t have to.
Continue reading Review: ‘Bridge of Spies’ Drives History Home
