Search the IR archives
IR Film Review: DISCLOSURE DAY [Universal]
Steven Spielberg’s original concepts are pretty good and with a writer like David Koepp who did "Jurassic Park" making something like "Disclosure Day" should be an exceptional run. And while this feels like a more complete Spielberg film than many recent forays, it suffers from a lot of plot holes that take away from its overall power. There are some great moments of wonder for sure but it is almost like not enough time was spent on the script. There are also set pieces that are bridges but don’t really expound on the character structure to move the plot.
IR Film Review: THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 [20th Century Studios]
The integral structure of "The Devil Wears Prada" is understanding the path if not leading the path. The first film, which is 20 years old, spoke of a certain idea before influencers. While the new film doesn't hit that right on the head, it does talk to the digital and click based idea encapsulating modern journalism, even within the fashion industry. The sequel benefits greatly from time because it allowed the characters to live life or reinforce what they are.
IR Film Review: PAIN HUSTLERS [Netflix]
It is always great to see a filmmaker stretch his wings beyond his comfort zone and see what new energy he can bring to certain material. Director David Yates and his lead actress Emily Blunt have taken an inherent American but global story and gave it an energy that shows different facets.
IR Film Review: JUNGLE CRUISE [Disney]
"Jungle Cruise" is a fun ride but not really anything new. Its plot points can be pulled almost directly from "The Mummy" with modern inclusion standards updating (which again is understandable).
IR Film Review: A QUIET PLACE - PART II [Paramount]
The approach in any sequel is one of structure and continuation. The interesting idea of "A Quiet Place" and its actual effectiveness was based on the notion of silence. The question becomes how to do that especially with one of your main protagonists is, story-wise, not really available for the second film.