Best to Worst of 2021
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- StarsJoseph PfeiferMickey KrossJay JonasIn official collaboration with the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, this documentary series take viewers through harrowing moments of the historic morning of September 11, 2001.(10)
- DirectorJon WattsStarsTom HollandZendayaBenedict CumberbatchWith Spider-Man's identity now revealed, Peter asks Doctor Strange for help. When a spell goes wrong, dangerous foes from other worlds start to appear, forcing Peter to discover what it truly means to be Spider-Man.A singular experience. To watch three childhoods — three golden sources of inspiration, dreams, and play — collide with such giddy exuberance and deep emotion… It’s something truly, truly special. Thank you, Marvel. (10)
- DirectorDenis VilleneuveStarsTimothée ChalametRebecca FergusonZendayaA noble family becomes embroiled in a war for control over the galaxy's most valuable asset while its heir becomes troubled by visions of a dark future.Witness a master filmmaker's lifelong dream be realised. Stupefying scale, a staggering soundtrack, and unparalleled production design. This monumental achievement of blockbuster art sent me to sensory nirvana many times over. (10)
- StarsJeremy ClarksonKaleb CooperCharlie IrelandFollow Jeremy Clarkson as he attempts to run a farm in the countryside.A splendid vista of quality entertainment, bursting with heart, laughs, memorable personas, an adoration for nature, and above all, enormous respect and empathy for farmers. (10 - Season 1)
- StarsPaul McCartneyRick Rubin2021 Six Episode Series on Hulu: Producer Rick Rubin interviews Paul McCartney on his work with the Beatles, Wings, and as a solo artist, including stories about his personal relationships that inspired his songwriting.Essential for passionate McCartney enthusiasts, Beatles fans, creators and musicians (of any field and background), and those seeking to become more in tune with life's magical, undersung gifts. (9.5)
- DirectorMatthew HeinemanStarsNathalie DougeA documentary following nurses, doctors, and administrators in a New York City hospital as they respond to the victims from the COVID-19 pandemic.Another year, another emotionally wrecking documentary about healthcare workers nearly topping my list. What sets this apart is the true terror of the events, and how everyday people - only God knows how - band together to overcome unimaginable horror and tragedy. (9.5)
- DirectorFlorian ZellerStarsAnthony HopkinsOlivia ColmanMark GatissA man refuses all assistance from his daughter as he ages. As he tries to make sense of his changing circumstances, he begins to doubt his loved ones, his own mind and even the fabric of his reality.Conceived from the ground up to convey the experience of dementia, this film was so devastating and so frightening... it left me shattered. Anthony Hopkins gives the most toweringly impressive and effective performance of his career; one that will stand amongst cinema's greatest. (9.5)
- CreatorHagai LeviStarsJessica ChastainOscar IsaacSophia KoperaTelevision drama miniseries which re-examines the original's iconic depiction of love, hatred, desire, monogamy, marriage and divorce through the lens of a contemporary American couple, played by Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain.A showcase of peak-form acting and scriptwriting. Each episode, each layer, challenges our notions of how to find “forever” in our imperfections. (9.5)
- DirectorLee Isaac ChungStarsSteven YeunHan YeriAlan KimA Korean American family moves to an Arkansas farm in search of its own American dream. Amidst the challenges of new life in the strange and rugged Ozarks, they discover the undeniable resilience of family and what really makes a home.This superb gem broke my heart and pieced it back together. (9.5)
- DirectorCary Joji FukunagaStarsDaniel CraigAna de ArmasRami MalekJames Bond has left active service. His peace is short-lived when Felix Leiter, an old friend from the CIA, turns up asking for help, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.A passionate farewell to Daniel Craig's Bond. Breathtakingly cinematic, with ruthlessness, charm, and the courage to evolve the franchise beyond common expectations. (9.5)
- DirectorBo BurnhamStarsBo BurnhamA musical comedy special shot and performed by Bo Burnham, alone, over the course of a very unusual year.Bo's hard work and bared soul is an auteuristic dreamland. The photographic range he's achieved, alone, in a single room, is astonishing. And his commentary on living/surviving these times leaves a marked impact. (9.0)
- StarsHailee SteinfeldKevin AlejandroJason SpisakSet in Utopian Piltover and the oppressed underground of Zaun, the story follows the origins of two iconic League Of Legends champions and the power that will tear them apart.Spins a tremendous saga through first-class visuals and sensationally designed character arcs. It's easy to forget this is born from a video game and not a New York Times bestselling Fantasy novel. (9.5 - Season 1)
- StarsJessie James GrelleBryce PapenbrookTrina NishimuraAfter his hometown is destroyed and is traumatized, young Eren Jaeger vows to cleanse the earth of the giant humanoid Titans that have brought humanity to the brink of extinction.Four unfathomably magnificent, godly episodes of crowning king anime action, flanked by four hours of well-developed but admittedly tedious socio-political drama. (9.0 - Season 4, Part 1)
- CreatorJennifer CorbettDave FiloniStarsMing-Na WenDee Bradley BakerMichelle AngThe "Bad Batch" of elite and experimental clones make their way through an ever-changing galaxy.In all of Filoni's shows, the first season is the weakest. By that measure, if this is where this visually stunning, 'badass-with-a-heart-of-gold' entry into Star Wars history begins, I am uncontrollably keen to see where it goes next. (9.0 - Season 1)
- DirectorChloé ZhaoStarsFrances McDormandDavid StrathairnLinda MayA woman in her sixties, after losing everything in the Great Recession, embarks on a journey through the American West, living as a van-dwelling modern-day nomad.Zhao tells the story of these true-to-life phoenixes with eye-watering grace. A film of small, unassuming moments that each hold an incredible, golden power to inspire hope and build very human connections. (9.0)
- StarsOrna GuralnikVirginia GoldnerLauren GuilbeauxCOUPLES THERAPY unlocks a hidden world: other people's relationships. Far from reality-show caricatures, this is true documentary filmmaking that brings viewers into authentic and visceral experience of weekly therapy with four couples.The clients are compelling, complex, and willing to go the distance with the world’s best psychoanalyst. Brilliant breakthroughs and heartbreaking breakdowns, this season has it all. (9.0 - Season 2)
- DirectorJessica KingdonThe absorbingly cinematic Ascension explores the pursuit of the "Chinese Dream." This observational documentary presents a contemporary vision of China that prioritizes productivity and innovation above all.Arresting and nonchalantly devastating. Another review identified this documentary as a dystopian nightmare of the capitalist world, and I can’t do much better. (9.0)
- StarsJacob HopkinsTakehito KoyasuDorothy Elias-FahnA lonely boy wandering the Arctic regions of North America meets a wolf, and the two become fast friends, depending on each other to survive the harsh environment. But the boy has a history, and the wolf is more than meets the eye as well.A miraculously beautiful metaphor exploring the loves, losses and triumphs of living. (9.0)
- In January 1969, The Beatles set out to write and record new songs for their first live show in more than two years, culminating in an impromptu concert atop their Savile Row studio.Peter Jackson unsurprisingly revels a little too much in the jam sessions, but it's nevertheless beyond surreal to be a fly-on-the-wall during the world's greatest band's watershed moments. (9.0)
- CreatorWarren EllisStarsRichard ArmitageJames CallisAlejandra ReynosoA vampire hunter fights to save a besieged city from an army of otherworldly creatures controlled by Dracula.Boasting intricate characters, a vision for the sexy and bloody, and some of animation’s most fluid and impressive action scenes. Castlevania rightly dons its crown as the godfather of video game adaptations. (9.0 - Season 4)
- StarsJohn WilsonKyle MacLachlanNiko NelsonAn anxious New Yorker attempts to give everyday advice while dealing with his own personal issues.John Wilson returns with a spectacular array of human strangeness and unbelievable happenstance. His storytelling has improved tenfold. Fact and fiction hilariously melt into each other. In Wilson’s world, anything is possible. (9.0 - Season 2)
- DirectorJimmy ChinElizabeth Chai VasarhelyiStarsBancha DuriyapuntApakorn YoukongkaewAnan SurawanA chronicle of the enthralling, against-all-odds story that transfixed the world in 2018: the daring rescue of twelve boys and their coach from deep inside a flooded cave in Northern Thailand.Demonstrates how the unbreakable human spirit can transcend borders, language, risk, and doubt. A triumph to witness. (9.0)
- DirectorZach ParrishAn elderly couple regain their youth in the rain.Wholeheartedly succeeds at its mission checklist: Gorgeous animation, heart-tugging existential theme, all set to a soaring 'La La Land' dance number. (8.5)
- CreatorMalcolm SpellmanStarsAnthony MackieSebastian StanWyatt RussellFollowing the events of 'Avengers: Endgame,' Sam Wilson/Falcon and Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier team up in a global adventure that tests their abilities -- and their patience.A tonal and thematic sequel to one of my favourite films was bound to scratch my full-body fanboy itches. A charming evolution of Sam & Bucky, and a super-welcome new addition in Wyatt Russell's U.S. Agent, of which I adored every overly-intense second of. (8.5)
- CreatorMark LevesonDan PattersonStarsColin MochrieAisha TylerRyan StilesAisha Tyler hosts this skit comedy show where the actors on the show, usually Wayne Brady, Colin Mochrie, Ryan Stiles and another guest star or two do different comedy skits. It's all improv and made up on the spot.(8.5 - Season 17 & 18 / 9 & 10)
- DirectorMichael RiandaJeff RoweStarsAbbi JacobsonDanny McBrideMaya RudolphA quirky, dysfunctional family's road trip is upended when they find themselves in the middle of the robot apocalypse and suddenly become humanity's unlikeliest last hope.All-or-nothing passion gushes from every frame, elevating the frenetic animation, gattling-gun comedy, and heartwarming insights of the modern family. (8.5)
- DirectorChloé ZhaoStarsGemma ChanRichard MaddenAngelina JolieThe saga of the Eternals, a race of immortal beings who lived on Earth and shaped its history and civilizations.The weight of this hefty epic is a little too much for Zhao; evident in the unfortunate clunk and jank that often rears its ugly head. However, when Eternals succeeds - as in its cinematography, action, narrative scale and uniquely graceful soul - it succeeds extraordinarily well. (8.5)
- DirectorJon M. ChuStarsAnthony RamosCorey HawkinsLeslie GraceIn Washington Heights, a sympathetic New York bodega owner saves every penny every day as he imagines and sings about a better life.Lin Manuel Miranda is, big surprise, massively talented. The length hurts it, but the entertainment, satisfying lyrics, and mega-catchy beats ease the ride. (8.5)
- StarsDaiki YamashitaJustin BrinerNobuhiko OkamotoA superhero-admiring boy enrolls in a prestigious hero academy and learns what it really means to be a hero, after the strongest superhero grants him his own powers.Even relatively inconsequential "further adventures of" MHA is more fun than most TV. And then there's the spectacular My Villain Academia arc. (8.5)
- StarsLee Jung-jaePark Hae-sooDylan BesseauHundreds of cash-strapped players accept a strange invitation to compete in children's games. Inside, a tempting prize awaits with deadly high stakes: a survival game that has a whopping 45.6 billion-won prize at stake.While not as wholly original as you’d hope, its emotional beats are unusually impactful and help create one of the year’s best episodes of television. (8.5)
- CreatorMichael WaldronStarsTom HiddlestonOwen WilsonSophia Di MartinoThe mercurial villain Loki resumes his role as the God of Mischief in a new series that takes place after the events of “Avengers: Endgame.”The week-by-week quality was discouragingly unpredictable, but the rewards it yeilded (Mobius + Eps 1, 4 & 6) were worth their weight in gold. (8.5)
- CreatorJac SchaefferStarsElizabeth OlsenPaul BettanyKathryn HahnBlends the style of classic sitcoms with the MCU, in which Wanda Maximoff and Vision - two super-powered beings living their ideal suburban lives - begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems.An absolutely bonkers gem of a concept that sadly loses sight of what makes it so special. Despite the shoulder-shrug of a finale, this was a crazy pill well worth swallowing. (8.5)
- CreatorDan HarmonJustin RoilandStarsChris ParnellSpencer GrammerSarah ChalkeThe fractured domestic lives of a nihilistic mad scientist and his anxious grandson are further complicated by their inter-dimensional misadventures.Few shows have the right to be this good in their fifth season, but somehow R&M continues to deliver some insanely original, best-of-the-year hits. (8.5 - Season 5)
- StarsMichael SinterniklaasNeil KaplanAdam SietzAn anthology of animated shorts from around the world celebrating the mythology of Star Wars through unique cultural perspectives.It shouldn't have taken the industry this long. I hope this is the key to unlocking a wide and wonderfully eclectic door for storytellers. (8.5 - Season 1)
The Duel - 9.5
The Ninth Jedi - 8.5
Akakiri - 8.5
T0-B1 - 8.0
The Elder - 8.0
The Twins - 8.0
Tatooine Rhapsody - 8.0
Lop & Ochô - 6.5
The Village Bride - 6.5 - StarsAndy PuddicombeOver the course of eight animated episodes, Andy Puddicombe—former Buddhist monk and co-founder of the globally beloved Headspace meditation app—takes viewers through the benefits and science behind meditation.Elegantly presented and surprisingly usable as a step-by-step introduction to meditation and all its uses. (8.5)
- DirectorDestin Daniel CrettonStarsSimu LiuAwkwafinaTony Leung Chiu-waiShang-Chi, the master of weaponry-based Kung Fu, is forced to confront his past after being drawn into the Ten Rings organization.Succeeds in taking the MCU to fantastically exciting new places, with killer action and top humour, but the emotion falls flat and the script forgets to give our hero any discernible character. (8.5)
- DirectorEmerald FennellStarsCarey MulliganBo BurnhamAlison BrieNothing in Cassie's life is what it appears to be - she's wickedly smart, tantalizingly cunning, and she's living a secret double life. Now, an unexpected encounter is about to give Cassie a chance to right the wrongs from the past.Fennell's debut as a writer/director stands out among the crowd, taking a strong stance with intelligent, smirking fury. (8.5)
- DirectorKim Seong-hunStarsJun Ji-hyunKim Si-AhPark Byeong-eunTragedy, betrayal and a mysterious discovery fuel a woman's vengeance for the loss of her tribe and family in this special episode of "Kingdom."No doubt, this may be one of the best works of the year, but I still need a visual map to make any sense of who’s who in the masterfully epic, but convoluted world of Kingdom. (8.5)
- CreatorMike WhiteStarsJennifer CoolidgeJon GriesF. Murray AbrahamThe exploits of various guests and employees of a luxury resort over the span of a week.Ripping character writing and giddy with anxiety. One of the year’s most popular shows will be your favourite unwelcome guest at the Netflix party. (8.5 - Season 1)
- StarsJeffrey WrightTerri DouglasMatthew WoodExploring pivotal moments from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and turning them on their head, leading the audience into uncharted territory.If you disregard it’s insistence as “canon” and the expected anthology stinkers, What If…? is a smorgasbord of striking art, fun stories and genuinely gut-punching, chills-all-over moments. (8.5)
- DirectorMorgan NevilleStarsAsia ArgentoAnthony BourdainAriane BourdainA documentary about Anthony Bourdain and his career as a chef, writer and host, revered and renowned for his authentic approach to food, culture and travel.(8.5)
- CreatorBrad IngelsbyStarsKate WinsletJulianne NicholsonJean SmartA detective in a small Pennsylvania town investigates a local murder while trying to keep her life from falling apart.At times, it reminds you that if you've seen one small town 'whodunit' murder mystery, you've seen 'em all. But this one does it much better than most. (8.5)
- DirectorThomas VinterbergStarsMads MikkelsenThomas Bo LarsenMagnus MillangFour high-school teachers consume alcohol on a daily basis to see how it affects their social and professional lives.Like your wildest night out, Vinterberg's latest winner is equal parts exhilerating, funny, dark, uncomfortable, and offers the opportunity to consider some life priorities. (8.0)
- CreatorRobert KirkmanRyan OttleyCory WalkerStarsSteven YeunJ.K. SimmonsSandra OhAn adult animated series based on the Skybound/Image comic about a teenager whose father is the most powerful superhero on the planet.5 hours of a good show that’s been done much better in other places, but it all leads to a stunner of a finale. Invincible is inconsistent, yet ultimately rewarding. (8.0 - Season 1)
- DirectorShaka KingStarsLaKeith StanfieldDaniel KaluuyaJesse PlemonsOffered a plea deal by the FBI, William O'Neal infiltrates the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party to gather intelligence on Chairman Fred Hampton.This tight, 2-hour look at what it means to be burnt by the torch you carry is a must-see primarily due to the next-generation acting dream team of Kaluuya and Stanfield. (8.5)
- DirectorJohn KrasinskiStarsEmily BluntMillicent SimmondsCillian MurphyFollowing the events at home, the Abbott family now face the terrors of the outside world. Forced to venture into the unknown, they realize the creatures that hunt by sound are not the only threats lurking beyond the sand path.Forget the casting rumours, who do I have to talk to for Krasinski to straight-up direct a Marvel feature? His majorly confident vision for terrific and gripping action sequences overshadows a totally serviceable script that runs out of steam by the last act. (8.0)
- DirectorJustin KurzelStarsCaleb Landry JonesJudy DavisSean KeenanEvents leading up to the 1996 Port Arthur massacre on Tasmania in an attempt to understand why and how the atrocity occurred.Kurzel's spiritual successor to Snowtown has a harrowing tone and powerful acting, but the (important) themes feel confused and not quite justified. (8.0)
- DirectorPaul GreengrassStarsTom HanksHelena ZengelTom AstorA Civil War veteran agrees to deliver a girl taken by the Kiowa people years ago to her aunt and uncle against her will. They travel hundreds of miles and face grave dangers as they search for a place that either can call home.A tried-and-true formula that made me realise just how much I missed the big screen, with glorious vistas, an ever-captivating performance from Hanks, and a classic, heartfelt tale at its centre. (8.0)
- DirectorJames GunnStarsMargot RobbieIdris ElbaJohn CenaSupervillains Harley Quinn, Bloodsport, Peacemaker, and a collection of nutty cons at Belle Reve prison join the super-secret, super-shady Task Force X as they are dropped off at the remote, enemy-infused island of Corto Maltese.For better or worse, this is James Gunn indulging wholly in being James Gunn, with all the inspired visuals, unexpected heart, and dumb "teenage-boy-who-grew-up-in-the-80's" humour you'd expect. (8.0)
- DirectorR.J. CutlerStarsBillie EilishFinneas O'ConnellMaggie BairdAn intimate look at the singer-songwriter's journey, navigating life on the road, on stage, in the streets and at home, while creating her debut album.Unlike most docs on young artists, this is far from a glossy advertisement. Rather, it’s an honest, raw depiction of a typical, frustrated teenager facing her insecurities on a global scale, as she’s caught in the consequences of her astonishing creative talent. (8.0)
- DirectorZack SnyderStarsHenry CavillBen AffleckGal GadotDetermined to ensure that Superman's ultimate sacrifice wasn't in vain, Bruce Wayne recruits a team of metahumans to protect the world from an approaching threat of catastrophic proportions.The opening 90-mins are an artistic triumph of visual storytelling. The same may have been said for what follows, if it weren't for a naff script and the insufferable Ezra Miller. (8.0)
- DirectorSpike LeeStarsDavid ByrneJacqueline AcevedoGustavo Di DalvaSpike Lee documents the former Talking Heads frontman's brilliant, timely 2019 Broadway show, based on his recent album and tour of the same name.While the music isn't my hot cuppa, the talent, showmanship and joy of Byrne's band absolutely warmed my heart. (8.0)
- DirectorTetsuo YajimaStarsSarah NatochennyKimlinh TranEdward BoscoThe story of Koko, a young boy raised by Pokémon, and the creation of a new bond between humans and Pokémon.Pokemon’s “adaptation” of Tarzan/Avatar makes a strong argument for this being the best since the original, with enchanting jungle art and a heartfelt symbiocene message. (7.5)
- DirectorLouis GonzalesStarsWilma BonetDevon LibranA grandmother's plan for a special day alone is upended by an unexpected visit from her granddaughter.Its predictability didn’t stop me from wiping the tears away. (8.0)
- 20211h 58mPG-138.0 (14K)96MetascoreDirectorQuestloveStarsDorinda DrakeBarbara Bland-AcostaDarryl LewisDocumentary about the legendary 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival which celebrated African-American music and culture and promoted Black pride and unity.The music is stirring, but the commentary detracts from the pacing, structure and soul of what might have been an essential concert film. Winds up feeling like a 2hr trailer for the real thing. (8.0)
- CreatorXiaofeng HeStarsJas PatrickJill BartlettRonny ChiengSeeking to recover his memories, a scissor-wielding hairdresser, bungling quasi-assassin stumbles into a struggle for power among three feuding factions.Distancing itself from the too-heavy lore of S2, the creator allows himself to stretch his imagination to seriously ridiculous places. (7.5 - Season 3)
- DirectorStan LathanStarsDave ChappelleDaphne DormanAs he closes out his slate of comedy specials, Dave takes the stage to try and set the record straight; and get a few things off his chest.Chapelle chooses to forge connection and understanding through finding jokes in the pain. The powerful closing story in this routine is his psalm to that belief. Jokes can be misguided, uncomfortable and unfunny, but true hate is the enemy all of us should be using our time and energy to fight against. (7.5)
- CreatorSatoshi TajiriJun'ichi MasudaKen SugimoriStarsVeronica TaylorRachael LillisEric StuartCovering the continuing adventures of series protagonist Ash Ketchum and Pikachu, and his best friend Brock, the two meet a new coordinator named Dawn, who travels with them through Sinnoh and enters Pokemon Contests.Pokémon Journeys lacks the emotion and strong storytelling of the early seasons (Legendaries are as common as Rattata here), but the spirit of this colourful world that celebrates all of nature - and a very goofy, very fun SpongeBob-esque humour it adopts halfway through the season - will enchant any child. (7.5 - Season 23)
- DirectorBaillie WalshStarsDaniel CraigMichael G. WilsonBarbara BroccoliDaniel Craig candidly reflects on his fifteen year tenure as James Bond. Includes never-before-seen archival footage spanning from Casino Royale (2006) to No Time to Die (2021).This lovely, casual, candid conversation enhanced my already deep appreciation for his terrific work. (7.5)
- CreatorKen DaurioCinco PaulStarsKeegan-Michael KeyCecily StrongDove CameronA couple on a backpacking trip discovers a magical town in which everyone acts like they're in a classic musical.(7.5 - Season 1)
- DirectorRose GlassStarsMorfydd ClarkCaoilfhionn DunneJennifer EhleA pious nurse becomes dangerously obsessed with saving the soul of her dying patient.
- DirectorMichael SarnoskiStarsNicolas CageAlex WolffAdam ArkinA truffle hunter who lives alone in the Oregon wilderness must return to his past in Portland in search of his beloved foraging pig after she is kidnapped.Goshdamn there’s a flipping great movie in here, but Alex Wolff’s grating character and performance constantly buries it away. (7.5)
- 2016–20241h 30m7.8 (2.7K)TV EpisodeDirectorPhil ChurchwardStarsJeremy ClarksonRichard HammondJames MayThe presenters are celebrating the great 70s American cars they saw in TV shows, as they road trip around Scotland, creating chaos on the streets of Edinburgh and building a homemade floating bridge across the Hebridean sea.This vacation with familiar friends isn’t photo-worthy, flashy or dangerous, but the banter is total class. (7.5)
- DirectorJared BushByron HowardCharise Castro SmithStarsStephanie BeatrizMaría Cecilia BoteroJohn LeguizamoA Colombian teenage girl has to face the frustration of being the only member of her family without magical powers.Its shortcomings are lifted by dazzlingly vibrant visuals, sick Miranda raps, and a final message more rewarding, complex and modern than the usual Disney fare. (7.5)
- StarsSarah Michelle GellarLena HeadeyMark HamillThe war for Eternia begins again in what may be the final battle between He-Man and Skeletor. A new animated series from writer-director Kevin Smith.Approaching this with no He-Man background, it quickly drew me in with a balanced blend of cheesy 80's animation camp mixed with well-drawn emotional depth. (7.5)
- StarsJeremy RennerHailee SteinfeldFlorence PughSeries based on the Marvel Comics superhero Hawkeye, centering on the adventures of Young Avenger, Kate Bishop, who took on the role after the original Avenger, Clint Barton.Renner is able to hold his own, and the Christmas vibes are spot-on, but it continuously fails to live up to its own promises. (7.5)
- DirectorDavid LoweryStarsDev PatelAlicia VikanderJoel EdgertonA fantasy retelling of the medieval story of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.Has sumptuous cinematography and talking-point strangeness to spare, but I struggled to grab hold of any sensical or emotionally compelling through-line in Lowery’s boldest, most egocentric vision yet. (7.5)
- DirectorPatrick ImbertStarsLazare Herson-MacarelEric Herson-MacarelDamien BoisseauA photojournalist's obsessive quest for the truth about the first expedition to Mt. Everest leads him to search for an esteemed climber who went missing.Stories of men chasing the climb at any cost have been told many times before, and better, but animation unlocks new potential to portray the daunting power of these mountains. (7.5)
- StarsChris DiamantopoulosKaitlyn RobrockBill FarmerMickey and his best pals - Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto - embark on their greatest adventures yet, navigating the curve-balls of a wild and zany world where the magic of Disney makes the impossible possible.A slight drop in creativity, but maintains that dizzy, Saturday morning, sugar-cereal energy. Mickey & Minnie’s dynamic remains the outstanding highlight. (7.5 - Season 1, Part 2)
- DirectorBen ProudfootStarsLarry BirdLusia HarrisOscar RobertsonQueen of Basketball is an electrifying portrait of Lucy Harris, who scored the first basket in women's Olympic history and was the first and only woman officially drafted into the N.B.A. Harris has remained largely unknown - until now.(7.5)
- CreatorSam LevinsonStarsZendayaHunter SchaferJacob ElordiA look at life for a group of high school students as they grapple with issues of drugs, sex, and violence.Does great service to Jules’ character, but the rushed, anti-climactic ending sucks quite a lot of power from the S1 finale. (7.5 - S1 Special, Part 2)
- DirectorMike JacobsStarsNicole J. GeorgesMaggie ThompsonMeet the writers and artists behind characters like Black Panther, Miles Morales, Ms. Marvel, Luke Cage, the X-Men, Captain Marvel, and many other characters in the Marvel Universe, highlighting their impact on pop culture and media.Here's a documentary that deserved its own series, as the history of Marvel's relationship with race, gender and sexuality seems too rich and important to gloss over. (7.5)
- DirectorCate ShortlandStarsScarlett JohanssonFlorence PughDavid HarbourNatasha Romanoff confronts the darker parts of her ledger when a dangerous conspiracy with ties to her past arises.A disappointingly forgettable adventure in the grand scheme of the MCU, but an easily enjoyable, big-screen romp for the action/spy genre. (7.5)
- CreatorSeth MacFarlaneDavid ZuckermanStarsAlex BorsteinSeth MacFarlaneSeth GreenIn a wacky Rhode Island town, a dysfunctional family strives to cope with everyday life as they are thrown from one crazy scenario to another.A handful of memorable episodes renew my subscription as a ride-or-die apologist of this struggling show. (7.0 - Season 19)
- StarsKevin FeigeStephen BroussardBrad WinderbaumAssembled is a comprehensive documentary series that chronicles the creation of Marvel Studios' thrilling new shows and theatrical releases. Assembled is an immersive, and in-depth examination of the next phase of the MCU.I appreciate Disney+ offering us something to substitute Blu-Ray bonuses of yesteryear, even when it's nowhere near as meaty. (7.0)
- DirectorAdam WingardStarsAlexander SkarsgårdMillie Bobby BrownRebecca HallThe epic next chapter in the cinematic Monsterverse pits two of the greatest icons in motion picture history against each other--the fearsome Godzilla and the mighty Kong--with humanity caught in the balance.A rollercoaster that delivers the popcorn goods, but it's frequently soured by bafflingly annoying human characters that only waste precious monster-mash space. (7.0)
- CreatorBobs GannawayStarsBilly CrystalBen FeldmanMindy KalingMechanic Tylor Tuskmon has big dreams of working his way up the ranks to the Laugh Floor at Monsters Inc.Hits the Disney Channel formula right on the mark: nice, clean fun for the little ones, with a handful of nods for the adults in the house. (7.0)
- StarsTucker GilmoreMichael HerreraBonnie PoppSeries of independent animated short films produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios.Overall, this second collection isn't as remarkable, with the exception of Going Home's sad beauty and the killer style of Songs to Sing in the Dark. (7.0 - Season 2)
Going Home - 8.0
Songs to Sing in the Dark - 7.5
Crosswalk - 7.0
Dinosaur Barbarian - 6.5
No. 2 to Kettering - 5.0 - DirectorJaume Collet-SerraStarsDwayne JohnsonEmily BluntEdgar RamírezBased on Disneyland's theme park ride where a small riverboat takes a group of travelers through a jungle filled with dangerous animals and reptiles but with a supernatural element.Funny how there’s now nostalgia for early 2000’s family adventure flicks, and it only works here thanks to Dwayne’s eternal charm. (7.0)
- DirectorShawn LevyStarsRyan ReynoldsJodie ComerTaika WaititiWhen Guy, a bank teller, learns that he is a non-player character in a bloodthirsty, open-world video game, he goes on to become the hero of the story and takes the responsibility of saving the world.Comfortably silly, with a can’t-do-wrong leading man and a couple of seriously worthwhile cameos. (7.0)
- CreatorSteven KnightStarsJason MomoaSylvia HoeksHera HilmarFar in a dystopian future, the human race has lost the sense of sight, and society has had to find new ways to interact, build, hunt, and to survive. All of that is challenged when a set of twins are born with sight.The opening episodes continue the grit and highly original world-building that attracted me to the series, but my interest was ultimately lost due to far too little plot stretched over far too many episodes. (7.0 - Season 2)
- DirectorJane CampionStarsBenedict CumberbatchKirsten DunstJesse PlemonsCharismatic rancher Phil Burbank inspires fear and awe in those around him. When his brother brings home a new wife and her son, Phil torments them until he finds himself exposed to the possibility of love.Not much here is all that believable (the romances and villainy feel contrived), nor does Campion's script propel the drama to places stark enough to leave a lasting impression. However, yes, her skills in framing and atmosphere are clearly the work of an experienced master. (7.0)
- DirectorJohn GleimStarsKathryn BeaumontMichael BuckhoffMarcy CarrikerExplore the rich history of the Walt Disney Archives as legendary producer and host Don Hahn tours rarely seen areas of the department's vast collections along with beloved Disney locations through an engaging, historical lens.Don Hahn is a perfectly jolly and amusing host in this revering trip through Disney history. (7.0)
- DirectorJustin LinStarsVin DieselMichelle RodriguezJordana BrewsterDom and the crew must take on an international terrorist who turns out to be Dom and Mia's estranged brother.Textbook definition of 'so bad, it's good'. The audience was howling with cheers and applause at this unbelievably moronic, big-budget self-parody. (7.0)
- DirectorJosh GreenbaumStarsKristen WiigAnnie MumoloJamie DornanLifelong friends Barb and Star embark on the adventure of a lifetime when they decide to leave their small Midwestern town for the first time - ever.I will happily ride along with any creative time trying to harken back to the silly, silly days of Austin Powers and 90's SNL. (7.0)
- DirectorTom BeardStarsDavid AttenboroughIsrafeel AhamedBhashkar BaraA fresh new approach to the global lockdown and the uplifting stories that have come out of it. People all over the world have had the chance to engage with nature like never before.It’s an existentially difficult watch, faced with the undeniable proof of how heavenly a home Earth could be without humans. (7.0)
- DirectorBrad BaruhBrian KwanStarsReba BuhrBen BurttJoe JohnstonA special celebrating the origins and legacy of Star Wars' legendary bounty hunter, Boba Fett.You see everything listed below? Well, if you need any indication of their quality, just know that I'd prefer to watch 20 minutes of, "Hey, isn't Boba Fett cool? Yeah. He's so cool. How 'bout that jetpack? So sweet. Sick ship, too. A'ight, see ya dude." (7.0)
- DirectorDon HallCarlos López EstradaPaul BriggsStarsKelly Marie TranAwkwafinaGemma ChanIn a realm known as Kumandra, a re-imagined Earth inhabited by an ancient civilization, a warrior named Raya is determined to find the last dragon.The talented artists at Disney have upped the animation ante yet again. It’s such a shame then that their work is let down by a predictable story and distractingly anachronistic dialogue. (7.0)
- DirectorCraig GillespieStarsEmma StoneEmma ThompsonJoel FryA live-action prequel feature film following a young Cruella de Vil.Obnoxiously over-directed, but the production design and costumes (which will surely earn Jenny Beavan her 3rd Oscar) are a jaw-dropping showstopper. (6.5)
- StarsKeegan-Michael KeyJordan PeeleCraig T. NelsonNext, grab a quick snack with Pixar Popcorn, a collection of mini shorts starring some of your favorite Pixar characters in all-new, bite size stories.This 20-minute diversion is made worthy by two delightful Incredibles shorts and a pair of hilarious improv skits from Key & Peele's Ducky and Bunny. (7.0)
- DirectorKirk R. ThatcherStarsWill ArnettTaraji P. HensonDarren CrissOn Halloween night, Gonzo is challenged to spend one night in The Haunted Mansion.Enjoyably dumb, I caught myself stuck in a smile thanks to chuckle-worthy puns and a barrage of nostalgic nods for the hardcore fans. (6.5)
- DirectorJames WanStarsAnnabelle WallisMaddie HassonGeorge YoungMadison is paralyzed by shocking visions of grisly murders, and her torment worsens as she discovers that these waking dreams are in fact terrifying realities.It’s a forgettable horror flick with cringe dialogue and performances UNTIL that third act, which is as silly and entertaining as the reviews promised. (6.5)
- 20211h 14mTV-PG7.3 (179)TV SpecialDirectorDave HoffmanJames B. MerrymanStarsWhoopi GoldbergChristina AguileraChris ConnellyWhoopi Goldberg hosts a historical journey spanning half a century and beyond at Walt Disney World, featuring spectacular visuals, musical performances, and interviews.I sat through this mostly cynical because more detailed, engrossing and less-commercial docs on the parks exist - but there were enough new moments in history and tear-jerking niceities to warrant a watch. (6.5)
- StarsShay MitchellCarlos AlazraquiEric BauzaSet in Manila where the mythical creatures of Philippine folklore live in hiding amongst humans, Alexandra Trese finds herself going head to head with a criminal underworld comprised of malevolent supernatural beings.Doesn't quite push itself hard enough to wring the most potential out of the uniqueness of its Filipino folklore influence. (6.5)
- DirectorMichael ShowalterStarsJessica ChastainAndrew GarfieldCherry JonesAn intimate look at the extraordinary rise, fall and redemption of televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker.I've found Michael Showalter's directing to be unshakeably 90's, and not in a pleasantly nostalgic way. There's no artistic touch. Garfield and Chastain are incredible, but everything is is too broad and too Corn Flakes-bland to be interesting. (6.0)
- CreatorTim MillerStarsFred TatascioreScott WhyteNolan NorthA collection of animated short stories that span various genres including science fiction, fantasy, horror and comedy.Wildly disappointing. My best guess at what went wrong is all these animation studios must have left “screenwriter” off their year’s budget. Hope the pizza party was nice, at least. (6.0 - Season 2)
Pop Squad - 8.0
Snow in the Desert - 7.0
The Drowned Giant - 7.0
Life Hutch - 6.0
The Tall Grass - 6.0
Ice - 5.5
Automated Customer Service - 5.0
All Through the House - 3.5 - DirectorSian HederStarsEmilia JonesMarlee MatlinTroy KotsurAs a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) Ruby is the only hearing person in her deaf family. When the family's fishing business is threatened, Ruby finds herself torn between pursuing her passion at Berklee College of Music and her fear of abandoning her parents.I've watched it twice and just cannot access what other people see, mostly as I feel like I've watched this movie 100 times before. Representation is important, and the world of CODA is quite unique to cinema, but the script is unbearably predictable. This story was better told in Khamoshi. (6.0)
- DirectorJ BlakesonStarsRosamund PikePeter DinklageEiza GonzálezA crooked legal guardian who drains the savings of her elderly wards meets her match when a woman she tries to swindle turns out to be more than she first appears.The most unlikeable lead I've had to endure, and what little fun there is (all credit goes to Peter Dinklage) gets lost in the dull stupidity of the script. (5.5)
- DirectorLana WachowskiStarsKeanu ReevesCarrie-Anne MossYahya Abdul-Mateen IIReturn to a world of two realities: one, everyday life; the other, what lies behind it. To find out if his reality is a construct, to truly know himself, Mr. Anderson will have to choose to follow the white rabbit once more.An insult to the trilogy, the fans, and the passionate filmmakers dreaming of telling their own stories within the universe, as there’s no chance in hell of that happening now. Resurrections is a (very expensive) Wattpad by a collective of weird high school theatre kids, where every idea was included because they didn’t want anyone’s feelings getting hurt. And the world’s kindest, most supportive parent says with a strained, defeated smile, “Bless, they seemed to be enjoying themselves.” (2.5)