The Tender Bar Review: Ben Affleck Shines In A Heartfelt Coming of Age Story

Release Date: December 22, 2021
Running Time: 106 Minutes
Directed By: George Clooney
Written By: William Monahan
Cast: Ben Affleck (Argo, Good Will Hunting), Tye Sheridan (Mud, The Card Counter), Lily Rabe (Miss Stevens, “American Horror Story”), Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future, I Am Not a Serial Killer), Max Martini (13 Hours, “The Order”), Rhenzy Feliz (“Runaways,” “American Horror Stories”), Briana Middleton (Augustus, Sharper), Max Casella (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” Jackie), Sondra James (“Sick of It,” Joker), Michael Braun (“The Sinner,” “The Affair”) and newcomer Daniel Ranieri.

In 1972, 9-year-old J.R. Maguire (Daniel Ranieri, later Tye Sheridan) spends hours scanning the airwaves for The Voice, his name for the radio deejay father who deserted him and his mom years earlier. As he dreams of the day when they can be reunited, he and his fiercely protective mother Dorothy (Lily Rabe) live with her family in his curmudgeonly grandfather’s (Christopher Lloyd) rundown house in Manhasset, Long Island, both working tirelessly to fulfill her dream of an Ivy League education for J.R.  Hungry for male attention, the boy finds comfort at the nearby Dickens pub, where the man behind the bar is his Uncle Charlie (Ben Affleck). A self-educated truth-seeker with a closet full of classic books and a thirst for knowledge, Charlie takes the boy under his wing, encouraging J.R.’s aspirations of becoming a writer. As J.R. grows to young adulthood with sporadic contact with his birth father, Charlie guides him through the mysteries of manhood and includes him in bowling nights, ball games and trips to the beach with his loyal band of quirky friends.

The Tender Bar has a lot to like about it, starting with the great cast.  Although this is an all star setup, and Tye Sheridan does a great job as J.R. in his journey of discovery, the real star of this show is Ben Affleck.  His bartender character is endearing and enjoyable, with a father-like quality and a ton of relatability.  I really liked how he was tough, but also fair to J.R. and lent his ear to the young man and his friends.  He also was a character full of surprises, with a lot more going on than you originally expect.  The film also really sets the 1972 tone with some great music.  It uses this soundtrack to set the stage and does a wonderful job transporting you to this time.  And the film also has a ton of heart, as you would expect in a journey of self discovery. I loved seeing J.R.'s family helping him out and trying to guide him along on his journey.  

But the issue with the Tender Bar is the length of the story.  It's not just a pure duration, but it feels like the story goes through several arcs, some of which don't feel entirely necessary.  I enjoyed the journey for the most part, but it did seem to go on a little too long.  And on top of that, after this longer journey, you don't really end up with a satisfying conclusion.  I guess this is because the film is based on a memoir, so staying true to that original medium and life are an important aspect, but it really did feel like the film just ended.  You didn't get a great revelation, you don't really know what happened after (though you could look it up), the film just kind of concludes without much fanfare.  And maybe this should be applauded as the movie didn't try to go for a Hollywood ending, but for a viewer I left feeling unfufilled.

The Tender Bar is a film that will warm your heart, showing a coming of age story with an unconventional family environment and a loving, extended family.   

Rent it.

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The Tender Bar is playing in select theaters on December 22, 2021 and on Amazon Prime on January 7, 2022.  For showtimes, click here.

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Are You Happy Now Review: A Slow Pace With Plenty of Heart

Release date: December 7, 2021
Running time: 95 minutes
Written and Directed By: David Beinstein 
Starring: Ismenia Mendes, Josh Ruben, David Ebert

ARE YOU HAPPY NOW is the story of Adam, who can’t live without Gina, so when he finally gets the nerve up to ask her to marry he's devastated by her principled refusal. “Husbands used to own their wives!” she retorts, having no interest in recreating her parents tortured home. Gina finally agrees to marry, but Adam's hardly up to the task. Does true love mean divorce?

Your enjoyment of Are You Happy Now will depend greatly on your enjoyment of the cast. The main person of interest in this one is Josh Ruben.  Personally, I really like Josh Ruben and thankfully his character in Are You Happy Now is an enjoyable one.  I liked his mix of slacker character, strange quirks, and overall desire to better himself despite his many mess ups.  And strange quirks this movie has, especially when Adam meets up with his compatriot Walt (Ebert).  And overall, this movie had some laughs and plenty of moments, as Adam tries to understand and come to terms with his own relationship and issues.  And in the end the movie does have a decent amount of heart, even if it takes a while to get there.

But as I just said, Are You Happy Now has a very slow to develop story.  Josh's character is kind of a slacker and that shines through in this film.  Although he seems to want to improve his character, there isn't much drive behind it.  And the biggest issue with this dark comedy is that it is just not that funny.  It has its moments that will make you chuckle, but when you have a talent like Josh Ruben, you expect more.  You will definitely have a smile on your face at times, but you will often also have a blank look as the jokes just don't hit.  And after this very long journey of self discovery, the movie leaves you with an ending that feels appropriate but also unfulfilling.  It will make you wonder whether the journey we took was worth the overall payoff.  

Are You Happy Now has quirky characters and heart, but the long story and hit or miss comedy might make you ask yourself this penultimate question during the film.

Rent it.

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Are You Happy Now is available on December 7, 2021. 

For additional information about the film and to rent / buy it, check it out at the links below.

This site contains affiliate links. //Commerce or this site may be compensated when you click through links on our site.  

Screening: See American Underdog Early and Free

 

We have partnered with Lionsgate for an early screening opportunity to see American Underdog!  The film is coming to theaters on December 25, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

American Underdog

American Underdog tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and years of challenges and setbacks that could have derailed his aspirations to become an NFL player – but just when his dreams seemed all but out of reach, it is only with the support of his wife, Brenda (Anna Paquin) and the encouragement of his family, coaches, and teammates that Warner perseveres and finds the strength to show the world the champion that he already is. American Underdog is an uplifting story that demonstrates that anything is possible when you have faith, family and determination. 

Cast: Zachary Levi, Anna Paquin, and Dennis Quaid

Directed by: The Erwin Brothers

Written by: Jon Erwin & David Aaron Cohen and Jon Gunn

Runtime: 109 mins 

   Screening Info:

American Underdog

Monday, December 20th

7:00pm
AMC Tysons Corner

Screening Link!

The Monkey King: Reborn Review: Beautifully Animated Anime-Style Chinese Action

Release date: December 7, 2021
Running time: 96 minutes
Directed By: Wang Yun Fei 

After short-tempered trickster Monkey King is insulted while visiting a temple with his master Tang Monk, he destroys a magical tree and accidentally releases the ancient King of Demons, who kidnaps Tang Monk as revenge for his long imprisonment. Now, Monkey King and his fellow disciples must rescue their master within three days, before the Demon King regains his full power and unleashes his armies to destroy the earth.

The Monkey King: Reborn is a beautiful film.  It is tough to stress just how nice this movie looks, with some really spectacular particle effects and environmental animation.  The fights are spectacular and some of the animation on the major characters, especially towards the end of the film, are absolutely beautiful.  And the fight scenes are rightly, for a movie about heavenly powers and world ending events, very intense.  It is like a more traditional anime made into three dimensional form, with the same speed, power, nad intensity that you would come to expect.  And the story itself is full of interesting characters and Chinese lore that will peak your interest.  

But Monkey King, like a few other Chinese animated films, tends to have a more crude humor style.  I don't think it's bad necessarily, just something that might be funnier in that culture versus an American audience.  I still enjoyed the movie, but didn't find the humor nearly as funny as I was hoping.  And the story was tough to follow at some points, again probably because of my unfamiliarity with Chinese lore.  I got enough of it and the fights were the main draw, but some of the nuances of the lore just went over my head.  I don't think either of these ruins the movie and what you are left with is a beautifully animated, exciting film.  This is similar to Nehza, where the opening sequence did not feel serious enough and was less engaging, but the later fights and sequences were stellar. 

The Monkey King: Reborn has some jaw dropping animation and fight scenes that continues the trend of beautifully animated, anime-style Chinese movies. 

Rent it.

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The Monkey King: Reborn is available on Blu-Ray, DVD, and digitally on December 7, 2021. 

For additional information about the film and to rent / buy it, check it out at the links below.

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News: Check Out Long Haired Pierce Brosnan In The New Trailer for The King's Daughter

Check out the new trailer for The King's Daughter, starring Pierce Brosnan and Kaya Scodelario and narrated by Julie Andrews.  The film is coming to theaters early next year so get ready for this royal journey!  And look at Pierce Brosnan's amazing long hair!

Check out the Trailer!

The King's Daughter

Starring | Pierce Brosnan, Kaya Scodelario, Benjamin Walker, Rachel Griffiths

Featuring | Bingbing Fan and William Hurt

Narrated by | Julie Andrews

Directed by | Sean McNamara

Based on | Vonda N. McIntyre’s novel ‘The Moon and the Sun’

Adapted for the Screen by | Barry Berman and James Schamus

Synopsis | King Louis XIV's (Brosnan) quest for immortality leads him to capture a mermaid's (Fan) life force, but his immovable will is challenged when his long-hidden illegitimate daughter (Scodelario) forms a bond with the magical creature.

Run Time | 97 minutes

Rating | PG

Screening: Sing Your Heart Out And See Sing 2 Early And Free

We have partnered with Illumination for an early screening opportunity to see Sing 2!  The film is coming to theaters on December 22, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

Sing 2

Release date: December 22, 2021, in theaters.

Running time: 110 minutes

Writer/Director: Nathalie Biancheri 

Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton, Tori Kelly, Nick Kroll, Garth Jennings, Pharrell Williams, Halsey, Bobby Cannavale, Letitia Wright, Eric André, Chelsea Peretti, and Bono 

Buster (Oscar® winner Matthew McConaughey) has turned the New Moon Theater into a local hit, but Buster has his eyes on a bigger prize: Debuting a new show at the Crystal Tower Theater in glamorous Redshore City. But with no connections, Buster and his cast—including harried mother Rosita (Oscar® winner Reese Witherspoon), rocker Ash (Scarlett Johansson), earnest Johnny (Taron Egerton), shy Meena (Tori Kelly) and, of course, provocateur Gunter (Nick Kroll)—have to sneak their way into the world-famous Crystal Entertainment offices, run by ruthless mogul Jimmy Crystal (Emmy winner Bobby Cannavale).

   Screening Info:

Sing 2

Wednesday, December 15

7:00pm

AMC Tysons

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Screening: A Journal For Jordan

We have partnered with Sony Pictures for an early screening opportunity to see the Denzel directed A Journal For Jordan!  The film is coming to theaters on December 25, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

A Journal For Jordan

Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Chanté Adams, and Jalon Christian

Director: Denzel Washington

Directed by Denzel Washington and starring Michael B. Jordan with a screenplay by Virgil Williams, A JOURNAL FOR JORDAN is based on the true story of First Sergeant Charles Monroe King (Jordan), a soldier deployed to Iraq who begins to keep a journal of love and advice for his infant son. Back at home, senior New York Times editor Dana Canedy (Chanté Adams) revisits the story of her unlikely, life-altering relationship with King and his enduring devotion to her and their child. A sweeping account of a once-in-a-lifetime love, the film is a powerful reminder of the importance of family.

   Screening Info:

A Journal For Jordan

Wednesday, December 15

Regal Majestic

7:00pm

Screening Link!

Screening: Grab A Spot of Tea and See The King's Man Early And Free

We have partnered with 20th Century Studios for an early screening opportunity to see The King's Man!  The film is coming to theaters on December 22, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

The King's Man

As a collection of history's worst tyrants and criminal masterminds gather to plot a war to wipe out millions, one man must race against time to stop them. Discover the origins of the very first independent intelligence agency in “The King's Man,” opening in U.S. theaters on December 22, 2021

Director: Matthew Vaughn

Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton, Rhys Ifans, Matthew Goode, Tom Hollander, Harris Dickinson, Daniel Brühl, with Djimon Hounsou, and Charles Dance

Runtime: 104 minutes

   Screening Info:

The King's Man

Tuesday, December 14

AMC Tysons Corner

7:00pm EST

Screening Link!

Screening: Grab a Drink and Check Out The Tender Bar Early And Free

We have partnered with Amazon Studios for an early screening opportunity to see The Tender Bar!  The film is coming to theaters on December 22, 2021 and Amazon Prime on January 7, 2022, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

The Tender Bar

A neighborhood pub in Manhasset, Long Island, becomes a second home for a fatherless boy in The Tender Bar, a poignant and inspiring coming-of-age story directed by George Clooney. J.R. (Tye Sheridan and Daniel Ranieri), whose father disappeared from his life before he was old enough to speak, moves into his grandfather’s dilapidated house after he and his mother (Lily Rabe) once again hit hard times. Under the unconventional tutelage of his Uncle Charlie (Ben Affleck), a charismatic, self-educated bartender, and a handful of the bar’s colorful regulars, J.R. grows into a young man determined to fulfill his dream of becoming a writer in this fiercely funny and blazingly honest adaptation of J.R. Moehringer’s bestselling memoir.

Director: George Clooney

Cast: Ben Affleck, Tye Sheridan, Christopher Lloyd, Lily Rabe

Screenwriter: William Monahan

Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning author J. R. Moehringer’s memoir “The Tender Bar”

Runtime: 104 minutes

   Screening Info:

The Tender Bar

Tuesday, December 14th
7:00 pm
Landmark E Street

Screening Link!

Screening: Take The Red Pill And See The Matrix Resurrection Early And Free!

We have partnered with Warner Bros for an early screening opportunity to see The Matrix: Resurrection!  The film is coming to theaters and HBO Max on December 22, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

The Matrix: Resurrection

From visionary filmmaker Lana Wachowski comes “The Matrix Resurrections,” the long-awaited fourth film in the groundbreaking franchise that redefined a genre. The new film reunites original stars Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss in the iconic roles they made famous, Neo and Trinity. 

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Christina Ricci, Telma Hopkins, Eréndira Ibarra, Toby Onwumere, Max Riemelt, Brian J. Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith

Director: Lana Wachowski

Runtime: 136 mins 

   Screening Info:

The Matrix: Resurrection

Monday, December 20th
7:00 pm
Regal Majestic

Screening Link!

Screening: See American Underdog Early And Free

We have partnered with Lionsgate for an early screening opportunity to see American Underdog!  The film is coming to theaters on December 25, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

American Underdog

American Underdog tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and years of challenges and setbacks that could have derailed his aspirations to become an NFL player – but just when his dreams seemed all but out of reach, it is only with the support of his wife, Brenda (Anna Paquin) and the encouragement of his family, coaches, and teammates that Warner perseveres and finds the strength to show the world the champion that he already is. American Underdog is an uplifting story that demonstrates that anything is possible when you have faith, family and determination. 

Cast: Zachary Levi, Anna Paquin, and Dennis Quaid

Directed by: The Erwin Brothers

Written by: Jon Erwin & David Aaron Cohen and Jon Gunn

Runtime: 109 mins 

   Screening Info:

American Underdog

Tuesday, December 7th

7:00pm
Regal Majestic

Screening Link!

Riki Rhino Review: An Avenue To Introduce Your Kids To The Environment And Conservation

Release date: November 29, 2021
Running time: 90 minutes
Starring: Jennifer Castle ("Miss Potter") and Paul Reynolds ("Press Gang")

Riki has his horn stolen by the horrible poacher Mr Jak. To get his horn back, Riki and Beni embark on an exciting adventure through the rainforest. Along the way Riki helps other animals in trouble and every time he helps, he is rewarded with a new skill that will help him on his quest.

Riki Rhino's best asset is the environmental nature of it.  It is slightly more brutal than other kids movies I am used to, but that also opens up an avenue to talk about poaching and the environment.  The film has some important messages about hunting and conservation that I appreciated.  Seeing the effects of this on the animals, even if in a kid focused environment is a great way to raise awareness.  And it also opens up discussions about Africa and the animals that are there.  Additionally, Riki Rhino is a cute film with some very funny moments (at least that's what my kids thought).  They were very happy when certain events happened, and when Riki got his new skill. 

But Riki Rhino's biggest flaw is in the animation area.  The animation gets the point across but it is rough in many places.  It often feels like the animation you would see in a children's cartoon from many years ago, with blocky movement, obvious textures, and some low polygon situations.  It was strange to see because it really did look like it was out of a different time.  And although the story did come across, it just made me wish for something that could truly show the majesty and beauty of this environment.  And the lore of the film didn't resonate with me, with a quest that often felt convenient in what happened.  Riki's situations would often be solved by very opportune character introductions and skills, which felt like maybe the story was put together a little too quickly.  And although my kids found it very funny, I didn't laugh nearly as much.  This is a good piece of entertainment for the kids, but it is not a film that will have references that keep adults entertained.  

Riki Rhino is an avenue to discuss important environmental issues and to introduce your children to some big ideas, but the rough animation and story make this a kid-focused endeavor.  

Rent it.

If you liked this review and want to see more from Watch or Pass, please consider 

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Riki Rhino is available in digitally and on demand.

Encounter Review: An Unsettling Look and Feel For This Confusing Story

Release Date: December 3, 2021
Running Time: 99 Minutes
Directed By: Michael Pearce 
Written By: Joe Barton and Michael Pearce
Cast: Riz Ahmed (Sound of Metal “The Night Of”), Octavia Spencer (The Help, Hidden Figures), Rory Cochrane (Argo, Hostiles), Janina Gavankar (The Way Back, “The Morning Show”), Lucian-River Chauhan (“Heartland,” “Gabby Duran & the Unsittables”) and Aditya Geddada

Desperate to save his two young sons, Jay and Bobby, from a mysterious threat, decorated Marine Malik Khan (Riz Ahmed) packs them in a car and sets off on a perilous journey across the western U.S. But while racing toward a secret military base in Nevada that may hold the key to safety, the trio encounters danger at every turn. Staying one step ahead of a group of government agents, Malik and the boys find themselves bonding in unexpected ways. As their relentless pursuers close in, and with time quickly running out, each of them must confront hard truths about the world, forcing Jay and Bobby to leave their childhoods behind. A gripping story of a father’s mission to keep his children safe at all costs, ENCOUNTER is at once a riveting thriller and a powerful drama about a family dealing with a seemingly unstoppable enemy.

Encounter has a definite style that evokes a classic feel.  I liked the older style sound and special effects that felt like a blast from the past.  And this was accentuated by a chromatic tint to some of the footage.  And similar to another movie this year (the interesting but unfulfilling Mosquito State), encounter zooms in on insects to give them an otherworldly feel.  The whole setup makes this feel like a film from the 80s or 90s, one that both looked to space for strange occurrences while acknowledging that those can occur down here on Earth.  But that insect theme permeates the whole film, as there are plenty of instances with insects being used to show the danger in the situation.  If you are not a fan of bugs, stay away from this one. 

And despite the very solid start and unsettling tone, the film just did not keep my interest.  Riz Ahmed is an amazing actor, and his performance is solid, but the film just did not have enough going on.  Part of this is the fact that you are questioning throughout what is real and what is not, which leads to some unsettling build up without any payoff.  Often you are wondering what you just saw.  The film tries to touch on aspects of mental health and PTSD, but they just did not resonate with me.  And although Octavia Spencer gets top billing in this film, she has a very limited appearance.  I was expecting more exposure from her, and she plays a key role, but ultimately this is a film about Riz Ahmed and the two kids.  Speaking of the kids, they are believable with a very good performance by the older of the two.  

And ultimately your enjoyment of the film will depend on how much you like the strange imagery and slow story.  There is some really great cinematography and use of old school effects to evoke some classic science fiction; sand some really great imagery to accompany it.  I thought that the end scene specifically had a clever setup to do just that.  But ultimately, this film feels like it has all the parts but just doesn't come together.  

Encounter has great imagery and a classic horror / scifi feel, but its slow and confusing story might make you avoid this meetup until its available to stream.  

Rent it.

If you liked this review and want to see more from Watch or Pass, please consider 

following us on our various social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube. 

Encounter is playing in select theaters on December 3, 2021 and on Amazon Prime on December 10, 2021.  For showtimes, click here.

This site contains affiliate links. //Commerce or this site may be compensated when you click through links on our site.  

Screening: See National Champions Early and Free

We have partnered with STX Films for an early screening opportunity to see National Champions!  The film is coming to theaters on December 10, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

National Champion$

Three days before the college football national championship game, star quarterback LeMarcus James (Stephan James) and teammate Emmett Sunday (Alexander Ludwig) ignite a player’s strike declaring they won’t compete until all student-athletes are fairly compensated. With billions of dollars at risk and legacies on the line, the stakes could not be higher. Now, with only hours until kickoff, the head coach (J.K. Simmons) and various power brokers (Lil Rel Howery, Tim Blake Nelson, Andrew Bachelor, Jeffrey Donovan, David Koechner, Kristin Chenoweth, Timothy Olyphant, Uzo Aduba) must race against the clock to protect or destroy the prevailing collegiate athletics system. 

Cast: Stephan James, J. K. Simmons, Alexander Ludwig, Lil Rel Howery, Tim Blake Nelson, Russell Wilson, Andrew Bachelor, Jeffrey Donovan, David Koechner with Kristin Chenoweth with Timothy Olyphant and Uzo Aduba

Writer: Adam Mervis

Director: Ric Roman Waugh

Producers: Basil Iwanyk, Brendon Boyea and Greg Economou

Runtime: 112 mins 

   Screening Info:

National Champion$

Wednesday, December 8

7:30pm

Landmark Bethesda Row

Screening Link!

Wolf Review: A Strange, Surreal, and Uniquely Wild Experience

Release Date: December 3, 2021
Running Time: 99 Minutes
Writer/Director: Nathalie Biancheri 
Producers: Jessie Fisk, Jane Doolan 
Cast: George MacKay, Lily-Rose Depp, Paddy Considine, Eileen Walsh, Fionn O'Shea

WOLF is a surreal and mysterious tale of self-discovery. Jacob (George MacKay) is convinced that he is a wolf trapped inside a human body and lives his days as he believes a wolf would. When he’s sent to a “curative” clinic for treatment, Jacob is determined to escape his confines -until he meets the beguiling Wildcat (LilyRose Depp). As their relationship deepens, Jacob quickly realizes that he must choose between being himself and staying with the only person who’s ever understood him. 

Wolf is not going to be for everyone, but it has so much going for it for those that are interested.  The acting and transformations of the actors into their animal form is very impressive, even if it can look silly at times.  Especially George MacKay’s change into the wolf.  When he is in his wolf form he looks very different: changing his movement, his mannerisms, and contorting his body to achieve a wolf setup.  You can tell he is fully invested and it shows.  Lily-Rose Depp as wildcat is also good, but not as transformational as George MacKay is.  The other animals are different levels of successful but together they form this wonderful animal menagerie.   And the wild nature of these kids and their animal forms are further enhanced by the sterile setting of the film.  It is a perfect foil to what is going on inside these kids, and it also is thoughtfully done with a wilderness environment just outside the doors of this hospital.  But inside it had this manufactured, clean look.  Everything in the hospital looked sterile and cleansed, down to the fake forest inside.  But just outside you can always see this amazing nature surrounding it. 

And Wolf also has some good music that underlies some of the animal transformations.  It's an interesting otherworldly music that evokes a sense of wonder and calm, with a little bit of wild.  And some scenes will have this overpowering music that evokes a sense of dread when something unsettling is going to happen.  And later there is this amazing, terrible 80s happy song that makes one of the most chaotic scenes perfect.  But it’s also the sound of the animals, of the wilderness, of everything that contributes to this wild feeling within this sterile world.  

And for better or worse, Wolf is weird.  I loved the strangeness and the overall idea, but this is not going to be for everyone.  The slow build up was a wonderful experience, but if you're not into the general concept or at least a little bit of strangeness, you're going to be in for a long night.  If you’re not feeling this early on, it won't get better for you.  I loved this but this is just a strange movie.  

Wolf is a wholly uniquely experience with distinctive characters, amazing transformations, and a slow building story that compares modern life with the wild of nature.

Watch it.

If you liked this review and want to see more from Watch or Pass, please consider 

following us on our various social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube. 

Wolf is in theaters on December 3, 2021.  For showtimes, click here.

This site contains affiliate links. //Commerce or this site may be compensated when you click through links on our site.  

The Humans Review: An All Star Cast In A Slow Burn Play

Release date: November 24, 2021
Running time: 106 minutes
Written and Directed By: Stephen Karam
Starring: Richard Jenkins, Jayne Houdyshell, Amy Schumer, Beanie Feldstein, Steven Yeun and June Squibb

Erik Blake has gathered three generations of his Pennsylvania family to celebrate Thanksgiving at his daughter’s apartment in lower Manhattan. As darkness falls outside and eerie things start to go bump in the night, the group’s deepest fears are laid bare. The piercingly funny and haunting debut film from writer-director Stephen Karam, adapted from his Tony Award-winning play, The Humans explores the hidden dread of a family and the love that binds them together.

The Humans feels very much like a play, and for good reason.  The film is an adaptation of a play and you can feel those roots throughout this movie.  It has a small, but phenomenal cast. It takes place almost entirely within a single apartment.  And it has a voyeuristic camera style that makes it seem like you are watching this family from another room.  Of those points, the cinematography was the standout for me.  I loved seeing these interesting, unconventional shots; you had a lot of instances of shots that were through doorways or in another room looking into the family.  It had a voyeuristic quality that made it feel like you were observing this family and their interactions.  There were some shots from lower angles and other shots that had a blurred perspective.  Overall it was a very interesting experience.  And on top of the cinematography, the writing was also an enjoyable aspect.  It definitely felt like a film that was converted from a play, with some funny statements, plenty of heartwarming family scenes, and lots of drama.  And it's strange to say this, but the film also had some natural conversation that did actually feel like how a family might converse over a Thanksgiving meal.

However, the Humans is a slow burning film, one that you will have to be in the right mindset to be in.  The story develops slowly and although it often does feel reasonably organic, it still could be tough to hold your interest.  Additionally, this slow burn feel is not helped by some sinister aspects that are introduced in the movie.  I couldn't tell if The Humans wanted to be a horror movie, but it had these moments that felt very much like the setup for something darker.  These felt clunky and ultimately didn't lead to much, and the additional concern is that these scenes felt unnecessarily drawn out.  The movie is not bad, but it does make this feel like an unnecessarily long experience despite the modest run time. 

The Humans has a fantastic cast and some very interesting cinematography, but the film's slow pace and strangely dark elements might make this a family meal you don't travel for. 

Rent it.

If you liked this review and want to see more from Watch or Pass, please consider 

following us on our various social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube. 

The Humans is available in theaters and on Showtime on November 24, 2021.  For showtimes, click here.

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Screening: See Being The Ricardos Early And Free!

We have partnered with Focus Features for an early screening opportunity to see Wolf!  The film is coming to theaters on December 3, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

Being The Ricardos

SYNOPSIS: Lucille Ball (Nicole Kidman) and Desi Arnaz (Javier Bardem) are threatened by shocking personal accusations, a political smear and cultural taboos in Academy Award®-winning writer and director Aaron Sorkin’s behind-the-scenes drama Being the Ricardos. A revealing glimpse of the couple’s complex romantic and professional relationship, the film takes audiences into the writers’ room, onto the soundstage and behind closed doors with Ball and Arnaz during one critical production week of their groundbreaking sitcom “I Love Lucy.” Featuring J.K. Simmons and Nina Arianda.

Director: Aaron Sorkin

Writer: Aaron Sorkin

Cast: Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem, JK Simmons, Nina Arianda, Tony Hale, Alia Shawkat, Jake Lacy 

 Screening Info:

Being The Ricardos
Monday, December 6

7:00 PM
Landmark E-Street

Screening Link!

What to Watch This Thanksgiving: Feasts, Family, and Festivities Films

It's Thanksgiving in America and families all over are gathering for big meals and awkward drama!  Here are some suggestions for Thanksgiving / Family related movies to entertain you in between the awkward small talk.  

The Humans (Theaters, Showtime)
Some interesting family drama around Thanksgiving time leads to some new secrets from a dysfunctional family, in this cinematic experience.  

A Christmas Feast / Feast of the Seven Fishes (Digital, Amazon Prime, Vudu, Tubi)
This wonderful holiday movie involves family, drama, and a big feast at the end.  Although it is Christmas related, it is a great choice to scratch that family feasting itch. For more information, check out our review!

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (Digital, AMC+)
The quintessential Thanksgiving movie, this classic follows someone trying to get home to the family for Thanksgiving, and all the roadblocks and obstacles that happen along the way.  It is available to stream on Amazon Prime with AMC+, which has a 30-day free trial if you just want to watch this today!

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (Apple TV+)
A classic kids Thanksgiving film that you can stream for free on Apple TV+.  This is another classic and one for the kids to enjoy while you are putting the finishing touches on your Thanksgiving meal.

The Binge (Hulu)
On a night when families eat excessive amounts of food, a movie about excessive indulgences seems fitting.  It also is a very funny film that should raise your spirits on a somewhat lonelier Thanksgiving!  For more information, check out our review!

Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2 (Netflix)
A movie about giant, alive food seems like a fitting way to celebrate Thanksgiving. It helps that it is a surprisingly good movie for kids and adults to enjoy!  For more information, check out our review!

Spirited Away (HBO Max)
One of the best animated films of all time also starts with a massive feast and has several prominent instances of gluttony.  It is also an imaginative and heartfelt journey that will rekindle your sense of wonder. 

Broil (Amazon Prime, Vudu, YouTube)
A film about a large meal and family issues, with a decidedly darker take on it all, Broil is the perfect Thanksgiving movie for someone looking for a more horror-themed night.  It also has some wonderful performances, great music, and some delicious food.  For more information, check out our review!

Screening: See Encounter Starring Riz Ahmed Early And Free!

 

We have partnered with Amazon for an early screening opportunity to see Encounter!  The film is coming to theaters on December 3, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

Encounter

Desperate to save his two young sons, Jay and Bobby, from a mysterious threat, decorated Marine Malik Khan (Riz Ahmed) packs them in a car and sets off on a perilous journey across the western U.S. But while racing toward a secret military base in Nevada that may hold the key to safety, the trio encounters danger at every turn. Staying one step ahead of a group of government agents, Malik and the boys find themselves bonding in unexpected ways. As their relentless pursuers close in, and with time quickly running out, each of them must confront hard truths about the world, forcing Jay and Bobby to leave their childhoods behind. A gripping story of a father’s mission to keep his children safe at all costs, ENCOUNTER is at once a riveting thriller and a powerful drama about a family dealing with a seemingly unstoppable enemy.

Directed by: Michael Pearce (Beast)
Script by: Joe Barton (The Ritual, “Giri/Haji”) and Michael Pearce
Starring: Riz Ahmed (Sound of Metal “The Night Of”), Octavia Spencer (The Help, Hidden Figures), Rory Cochrane (Argo, Hostiles), Janina Gavankar (The Way Back, “The Morning Show”), Lucian-River Chauhan (“Heartland,” “Gabby Duran & the Unsittables”) and Aditya Geddada.
Produced by: Derrin Schlesinger (American Animals, The Nest), Piers Vellacott (Dream Horse, Three Identical Strangers) and Dimitri Doganis (American Animals, Three Identical Strangers). 

   Screening Info:

Encounter
Monday, November 29

7:00 PM
Landmark E-Street

Screening Link!

Screening: Howl At The Moon And See Wolf Early and Free!

We have partnered with Focus Features for an early screening opportunity to see Wolf!  The film is coming to theaters on December 3, 2021, but you can see it early and free!!  Details and entry form are below!

Wolf

WOLF is a surreal and mysterious tale of self-discovery. Jacob (George MacKay) is convinced that he is a wolf trapped inside a human body and lives his days as he believes a wolf would. When he’s sent to a “curative” clinic for treatment, Jacob is determined to escape his confines -until he meets the beguiling Wildcat (LilyRose Depp). As their relationship deepens, Jacob quickly realizes that he must choose between being himself and staying with the only person who’s ever understood him. 

Writer/Director: Nathalie Biancheri 
Producers: Jessie Fisk, Jane Doolan 
Cast: George MacKay, Lily-Rose Depp, Paddy Considine, Eileen Walsh 

 Screening Info:

Wolf
Wednesday, December 1

7:00 PM
AMC Tysons Corner

Screening Link!

Lair Review: Strong Leads and Unsettling Start

Release date: November 9, 2021
Running Time: 100 minutes
Director: Adam Ethan Crow
Cast: Corey Johnson (Steven), Oded Fehr (Ben), Alexandra Gilbreath (Wendy), Sean Buchanan (Det. Pitt), Aislinn De'ath (Maria), Kashif O'Connor (Ola), and newcomers Anya Newall (Joey) and Alana Wallace (Carly)

When Ben Dollarhdye is accused of murder, saying he was possessed by a demonic force, Steven Caramore investigates his friend's claims, setting off a chain of events that forces a young family into a terrifying battle for survival.

Lair has a suspenseful start that sets the tone very well.  This horror movie focuses on demonic possession, with a hint of voyeuristic intentions.  The main characters are in a sort of experiment, to see if ghosts are real.  This causes some suspense as you wonder what will happen next and if they will become victims of this strange experiment.  And the characters are generally well done.  I especially liked seeing a lesbian couple as the main characters in a horror film.  It seems that more and more films are coming out with diverse protagonists, and Lair continues this trend with a set of strong female leads to propel this horror movie forward.  

But although Lair starts off interesting, the film does have some odd quirks.  For example, although the writing is generally fine, there are some instances with odd lines or character turns. And the film starts off as a demonic possession type movie, but then changes into a very different type of haunting film.  I didn't love this for a few reasons.  For one, it caused the movie to escalate very quickly after a long setup of this scenario.  And this move from possession to haunting causes the situations to just be too different to feel related.   And this caused the type of situation to not match up with the introductory scene.  The whole concept behind why this family is being observed in this apartment just feels too disconnected from the initial scenario to make sense.  And although the film escalates quickly, it kind of goes off the rails in the end.  It seems like the film wants to try and go for a shock ending rather than one that seems consistent with the film.  

Lair has strong LGBTQ protagonists, a slow build up, and a decently unsettling setting that are let down by the story's disjointed nature and attempt at a shock ending.  

Rent it.

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Lair is available digitally and on demand on November 9, 2021.  

For additional information about the film and to rent / buy it, check it out at the links below.

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