TONY’S TAKE

Proud member of the Critics’ Choice Association! Reviewing the newest releases every week on Morning Blend St. Louis, airing Saturday and Sunday mornings at 5:30am on KPLR 11 and now syndicating in Kansas City, Indianapolis, San Diego, and soon-to-be in Nashville (July 5th!) and on YouTube after (https://www.youtube.com/@MorningBlendStLouis). Be sure to follow me on Twitter/BlueSky/Letterboxd @MoselloATC AND NOW ALSO ON TIKTOK @MoselloAtTheMovies as well for the latest movie news, reviews, and reactions from straight-out-of-the-theater!

ELIO – /5 & 28 YEARS LATER – /5 COMING SOON!

THE LIFE OF CHUCK – 5/5 & HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON – 4/5 & MATERIALISTS – 3.5/5

BALLERINA – 3.5/5 & THE PHOENICIAN SCHEME – 4/5

LOST IN STARLIGHT – 4/5

LOST IN STARLIGHT is a moving story of love, destiny, and following one’s path that revolves around Korea’s NASA program and its exploration of Mars. The film is brought to-life by its impressive visuals and elevated further through its human connection and emotional resonance. It’s a story filled with hope, which is something we can all use right now and it’s beautiful message reverberates through the Galaxy. Now streaming only on NETFLIX!

BRING HER BACK – 4/5 & KARATE KID: LEGENDS – 3/5 & JANE AUSTEN WRECKED MY LIFE – 3.5/5

FEAR STREET: PROM QUEEN – 3/5

FEAR STREET: PROM QUEEN is a fun, campy take on the overdone “high school” slasher. As we return to Shadyside, this new cast of characters are still your stereotypical protagonists but they provide enough intrigue to keep our attention and the retro vibe fits very well, not to mention the solid moments of bloodshed and gore. While it does little to separate itself from so many “slashers” that have come before it, it’s still an entertaining watch and makes for solid genre entry; even if you’ve pieced it together along the way.

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – THE FINAL RECKONING – 4.5/5 & FRIENDSHIP – 3.5/5 & FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH – 3.5/5

FINAL DESTINATION: BLOODLINES – 3.5/5

FINAL DESTINATION: BLOODLINES is pure fun at the movies; subverting your expectations in the best way and doing away with its usual formula. There are plenty of great, gruesome death scenes with a story that connects in a way that honors this 25 year old franchise. This one is absolutely for the fans and hopefully they appreciate the quality this far down the road. What comes next? You’ll have to find out for yourself! Rest In Peace Tony Todd

JULIET & ROMEO – 2.5/5

JULIET & ROMEO is incredibly ambitious. A modern-musical that takes place during the appropriate 14th century Verona. Aside from the modern-pop music, this version provides its own unique twist on the famous tale as well. The cast is all-in, though Fogler & Jacobi are the standouts for me. Some of the songs are quite memorable as well, surprisingly. However, the film has more faults than successes; the lip-synching is painfully bad, the pacing it all over the place, and the number on issue: why did we need this? While many will be quick to dismiss the film and it has its fair share of flaws, this will undoubtedly introduce a new generation to Shakespeare’s work thanks to its stylistic changes, and that’s never a bad thing.

NONNAS – 4/5

NONNAS is a delightful and charming story of life, family, and delicious cuisine. Led by a charismatic-as-ever Vince Vaughn, the film is easy to connect with (even if you’re not Italian) and reminds us that we live-on through what we leave behind. Each of the women (Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, Brenda Vaccaro, Susan Sarandon, and Linda Cardellini) offer strong performances that provide the heart and soul of the film. Don’t press play on an empty stomach though, as these ladies will have your mind fully-focused on food and your hunger will be at an intense level! Streaming on NETFLIX beginning 5/9!

THE FOUR SEASONS (TELEVISION) – 4/5

THE FOUR SEASONS is a beautiful portrait of adulthood through three couples, showcasing its trials, triumphs, and ever-increasing fragility. A remarkable cast consisting of Tina Fey, Will Forte, Steve Carell, Colman Domingo, Kerri Kenney, and Marco Calvani makes it easy-to-enjoy. The series focusing on so many of life’s moments, ranging in both importance and emotions that it emits authentically. Now streaming on Netflix!

UPDATE: It has been renewed for Season 2!

THUNDERBOLTS – 3.5/5

THUNDERBOLTS* is a solid step in the right direction for the MCU. While not groundbreaking by any means, it’s a dark, fun, character-focused journey that both teaches lessons and entertains. Florence Pugh is spectacular and Earth-616 finally moves forward in a much needed way. Why the overhype then? It’s been awhile since the MCU offered a strong film that doesn’t rely on constant jokes or nostalgia and many people have forgotten what it feels like. So while THUNDERBOLTS* is fun and should be seen, it’s clear the future may not be as dark and gloomy as many feared.

ANOTHER SIMPLE FAVOR – 2.5/5

HAVOC – 3.5/5

HAVOC is an (aptly-titled) cop thriller that’s vicious and violent. Tom Hardy embodies the morally uneven protagonist well, clearly enjoying the physicality of the role. The film’s remarkable nightclub sequence warrants multiple viewings as well, but they never quite hit the level of THE RAID or JOHN WICK films as they are clearly styled-after. It’s a fun, slightly messy ride that will be streaming on NETFLIX 4/25!

THE LEGEND OF OCHI – & ON SWIFT HORSES –

BULLET TRAIN EXPLOSION – 3/5

BULLET TRAIN EXPLOSION is a wild ride that starts off incredibly strong, but loses steam along the way. Imagine a modern day “SPEED” combined with a bullet train in Japan, complete with plenty of twists, turns, and surprises along the way. As the tension builds, your adrenaline will be pumping, but the film’s conclusion leads this to be a fun watch, but a disappointing finish. I do hope to see these characters again though, as there is certainly plenty of story that can be further developed. Now streaming on NETFLIX!

SINNERS – 5/5

SINNERS is f****** excellent! Ryan Coogler delivers a polarizing, multi-layered story about ancestry, spirituality, and freedom. Michael B. Jordan is phenomenal, alongside an impressive Hailee Steinfeld, Delroy Lindo, Miles Caton & Jack O’Connell. Brilliantly shot & constructed, SINNERS works entirely even before the vampire twist begins. The 1st half feels very Tarantino-esque with strong, witty dialog & Coogler truly makes you feel a connection with each character. It also features the most impressive sequence of the year; an absolute MUST SEE!

SACRAMENTO – & DROP – & WARFARE – 5/5 COMING SOON!

HOME SWEET HOME: REBIRTH – 2.5/5

HOME SWEET HOME: REBIRTH is entertaining and full of intrigue, but could have been so much more. This video game adaptation takes some MAJOR swings which should definitely be applauded, including a few shockingly dark and brutal sequences. However, the film’s “cool”, fantastical premise and creature design is held back by a very poor script; suffering from poor dialogue, overspoken exposition, and a far-too-quick finale. The cast, consisting of William Moseley, Urassaya Sperbund, Akeira Hadden, and deliciously evil Michele Morrone, never are given a chance to stand out; though it’s beyond clear that Morrone is having a blast with his role. While the film is certainly flawed, I absolutely still enjoyed it and hope there’s more to come for the franchise!

FREAKY TALES – 3/5 & THE MARTIAL ARTIST – 2/5

HELL OF A SUMMER – 3/5

THE LIFE LIST – 3/5

THE LIFE LIST is a film that will undoubtedly tug at your heartstrings, evoking thoughts of death and grief with a twist. Though it’s predictable and would have greatly benefited from a shorter run time, the film has enough charm thanks to Sofia Carson and some excellent supporting work from Connie Britton will certainly stay with you. While it may require suspending your disbelief is some moments, the film will certainly make you think about how you can positively impact your loved ones even after you’re gone. I know I personally found the idea incredibly rewarding, though perhaps a more “toned-down” version would be more applicable for real life. The film will begin streaming only on NETFLIX March 28th!

DEATH OF A UNICORN – 4/5 & BOB TREVINO LIKES IT – 4.5/5 & THE PENGUIN LESSONS – 3.5/5

THE RESIDENCE (TELEVISION) – 4/5

THE RESIDENCE is a dark, comedic murder mystery at the White House that works so well due to Uzo Aduba’s charm and wit, with strong support from Giancarlo Esposito and Randall Park as well. Each episode is styled and titled-after a famous murder mystery as well, smartly paying homage to so many that have come before it. With so many twists and turns and endless misdirection, you’ll be left guessing “whodunnit” until the very end. You can investigate the murder for yourself only on NETFLIX March 20th!

THE ELECTRIC STATE – 2.5/5

THE ELECTRIC STATE offers a promising premise of a technological takeover and, while it has its moments, is mostly just wasted potential. Timely robotic conversations and impressive visuals aren’t enough to compensate for its lack of heart and humor; and the voice cast far-exceeds the live action one as well. The source material offers a strong base, but overdone gags keep it from ever becoming more that that. Sadly, it’s an uneven mess that serves as a reminder of what could’ve been. Streaming only on NETFLIX 3/14!

BEVERLY HILLS COP: AXEL F & DESPICABLE ME 4

FANCY DANCE – 4/5 & DADDIO – 4/5 & JANET PLANET – 2/5

INSIDE OUT 2 – 4.5/5 & TUESDAY – 4/5

THE BIKERIDERS – 4/5

BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE – 4/5

YOUNG WOMAN AND THE SEA – 4/5 & FOR LOVE AND LIFE: NO ORDINARY CAMPAIGN 5/5

FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA – 4.5/5 & THE GARFIELD MOVIE – 3/5 & THE BLUE ANGELS – 4/5

IF – 4/5 & I SAW THE TV GLOW – 2/5

KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES – 3/5

THE FALL GUY – 4.5/5 & THE IDEA OF YOU – 3/5

CIVIL WAR – 5/5 & ABIGAIL – 3.5/5

CHALLENGERS – 4/5

GHOSTBUSTERS: FROZEN EMPIRE – 3.5/5 & ROAD HOUSE – 3.5/5

PROBLEMISTA – 3/5

ARTHUR THE KING – 3.5/5

KUNG FU PANDA 4 – 3/5

DUNE: PART TWO – 5/5

DRIVE-AWAY DOLLS – 3/5

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE – 3.5/5 & MADAME WEB – 1.5/5

THE TEACHER’S LOUNGE – 4/5

SUNCOAST – 3/5

THE UNDERDOGGS – 3.5/5

AMERICAN FICTION – 5/5

THE ZONE OF INTEREST – 4.5/5

TOP 15 FILMS OF 2023

OPPENHEIMER
THE HOLDOVERS
MAESTRO
ANATOMY OF A FALL
AMERICAN FICTION
SALTBURN
POOR THINGS
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
MAY DECEMBER
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
BARBIE
THE BOY AND THE HERON
PAST LIVES

HONORABLE MENTION (alphabetical)

ALL OF US STRANGERS
GODZILLA MINUS ONE
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3
JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4
THE KILLER
WONKA

THE COLOR PURPLE – 3.5/5

THE BOYS IN THE BOAT – 4/5

THE IRON CLAW – 3.5/5

POOR THINGS – 4.5/5

SALTBURN – 4.5/5

WONKA – 4/5

WISH – 3.5/5

NAPOLEON – 3/5

THE HUNGER GAMES: THE BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS & SNAKES – 3.5/5

NEXT GOAL WINS – 3/5

THE MARVELS – 3.5/5

THE HOLDOVERS – 5/5

THE KILLER – 4/5

KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON – 4/5

THE BURIAL – 3/5

THE EXORCIST: BELIEVER – 3/5

PAW PATROL: THE MIGHTY MOVIE – 3/5

STRAYS – 4.5/5

TALK TO ME – 4/5

HAUNTED MANSION – 2.5/5

OPPENHEIMER – 5/5

THE MIRACLE CLUB – 3/5

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE – 4.5/5

ASTEROID CITY – 3.5/5

NO HARD FEELINGS – 3/5

THE FLASH – 4/5

ELEMENTAL – 3/5

THE BLACKENING – 3/5

TRANSFORMERS: RISE OF THE BEASTS – 4/5

SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE – 5/5

KANDAHAR – 3.5/5 & THE LITTLE MERMAID – 3/5

CARMEN – 3/5

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3 – 5/5

AIR – 5/5

THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE – 3/5

SPINNING GOLD – 2.5/5 & TETRIS – 4/5 & DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES – 4/5

JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 – 5/5

SCREAM VI – 4/5 & CHAMPIONS – 4.5/5

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