The Five Devils (2023)
79%RT Audience Score: 71%
Awards & Nominations: NA
The Five Devils is a film that is both enchanting and perplexing, with its magical realism and unconventional storytelling. While some critics found fault in the film’s lack of focus, others praised its formal confidence and strong performances. Adèle Exarchopoulos shines in her role, bringing a sense of depth and emotion to the film’s exploration of transgenerational trauma. Director Léa Mysius shows great ambition in her sophomore effort, and while not entirely successful, The Five Devils is a stylish and subversive psychodrama that will leave audiences both intrigued and bewitched.
The Five Devils is a wild ride through family drama, magical realism, and black girl magic. While some critics found the film to be overly ambitious or sentimental, I found it to be a playful and strange journey that kept me hooked until the end. The killer soundtrack, strong performances, and visual appeal make this film a must-see for anyone who loves a good psychodrama. Plus, who doesn’t love a little time-traveling and witchy intrigue? Overall, The Five Devils is a fun and imaginative film that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
Production Company(ies)
Foreign Language, Psychological, Sister
Distributor
NA
Release Type
Streaming, Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
Seine-Saint-Denis, France; France
MPAA / Certificate
NR
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:2.39 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 35m
-
Language(s):French
-
Country of origin:France
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Mar 24, 2023 Limited
Genre(s)
Drama/Fantasy
Keyword(s)
Drama, Fantasy, French (France), Léa Mysius, Jean-Louis Livi, Fanny Yvonnet, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Sally Dramé, Swala Emati, Moustapha Mbengue, Daphne Patakia, Patrick Bouchitey, Paul Guilhaume, Limited Release, $38.2K Box Office, Critic Reviews, Peter Debruge, Richard Whittaker, Michael O’Sullivan, Kevin Maher, Drew Gregory, Sophie Butcher, Rene Sanchez, Hope Madden, Emiliano Basile, Dustin Chang, Dennis Schwartz, Taylor Baker, Family Secrets, Queer Romance, Magical Realism, Time Travel, Scent, Transgenerational Trauma, Black Girl Magic
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $5,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $5,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,821
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $2,692,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Sally Dramé – Vicky
Swala Emati – Julia
Moustapha Mbengue – Jimmy
Daphne Patakia – Nadine
Patrick Bouchitey – Jean Yvon
Director – Léa Mysius
Producers – Jean-Louis Livi, Fanny Yvonnet
Writers – Léa Mysius, Paul Guilhaume
Director(s)
Léa Mysius
Writer(s)
Léa Mysius, Paul Guilhaume, Léa Mysius, Paul Guilhaume
Producer(s)
Jean-Louis Livi, Fanny Yvonnet
Film Festivals
Cannes
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (56) | Top Critics (16) | Fresh (47) | Rotten (9)
The… director is more ambitious than she is successful this time around.
April 1, 2023
Peter Debruge
Variety
TOP CRITIC
If The Five Devils more bravely embraced a single perspective, that might have better bound together its depiction of a family splitting apart.
March 30, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/5
Richard Whittaker
Austin Chronicle
TOP CRITIC
The film’s magical realism heightens its otherwise conventional contours and sharpens its otherworldly pleasures.
March 29, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Michael O’Sullivan
Washington Post
TOP CRITIC
A surfeit of storytelling ambition is the only thing that threatens to upend this otherwise startling second feature from the French director Léa Mysius.
March 27, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Kevin Maher
Times (UK)
TOP CRITIC
With a killer soundtrack, formal confidence, and strong performances, the film invites the audience to embrace the narrative’s chewiness.
March 26, 2023
Drew Gregory
Autostraddle
TOP CRITIC
[The film] loses its edge, building towards an overly sentimental, saccharine ending – but there’s more than enough witchy intrigue, interesting filmmaking and an array of strong performances to keep you compelled.
March 24, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Sophie Butcher
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
Adèle Exarchopoulos shines in this sensorial and enigmatic journey about transgenerational trauma. [Full Review in Spanish]
April 7, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Rene Sanchez
Cine Sin Fronteras
This is an unusual film, generous with its characters even as it looks at the selfishness of love, the neediness within family, and the strange battles we fight.
April 4, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/5
Hope Madden
MaddWolf
The Five Devils is a playful and strange movie with visual appeal that lures the spectator into a journey through the power of imagination. [Full review in Spanish]
April 3, 2023 | Rating: 8/10
Emiliano Basile
EscribiendoCine
The Five Devils turns into a poignant story about prejudices and acceptance, with black girl magic elements.
April 3, 2023
Dustin Chang
ScreenAnarchy
A stylish, supernatural, weird and subversive psychodrama.
March 31, 2023 | Rating: B
Dennis Schwartz
Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews
Léa Mysius’s The Five Devils is a noteworthy sophomore film, not just in its accomplished delivery of craft but its effortlessness at capturing the story of a young girl time-traveling while a family and small community seem to splinter apart.
March 30, 2023 | Rating: 68/100
Taylor Baker
Drink in the Movies…
Plot
When Vicky’s estranged aunt returns to town, the young girl’s ability to recreate scents leads her on a journey to uncover family secrets and queer romance in the magical realism drama, The Five Devils.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Adèle Exarchopoulos shines in her role as Joanne in The Five Devils.
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Sanctuary 2023
Sanctuary (2023)
78%RT Audience Score: 62%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Sanctuary is a film that defies categorization, blending elements of romantic comedy, psychosexual thriller, and class warfare drama into a deliciously twisted and unpredictable whole. Director Zachary Wigon plays with audience expectations, revealing the true dynamic between the two leads in a way that is both surprising and satisfying. Margaret Qualley and Christopher Abbott give standout performances, their chemistry fluctuating between desire, desperation, and despisal with ease. The film’s message about the shifting power dynamics between men and women is engaging and thought-provoking, and the witty dialogue and energetic pacing make for a thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience. Overall, Sanctuary is a smart, sexy, and subversive film that is not to be missed.
Sanctuary is the perfect movie for those who want a little bit of everything – romance, comedy, and a twisty thriller all rolled into one. The chemistry between Margaret Qualley and Christopher Abbott is electric, and the film keeps you guessing until the very end. Plus, who doesn’t love a movie that explores power dynamics and the blurred lines between desire and desperation? It’s a wild ride that you won’t want to miss.
Production Company(ies)
Mosaic, Psychological
Distributor
NEON
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
SHOOT LOCATION(S):
New York, United States
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 36m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Mystery & thriller/Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Margaret Qualley, Christopher Abbott, directed by Zachary Wigon, written by Micah Bloomberg, mystery, thriller, drama, R rating, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Jeannette Catsoulis, Greg Nussen, Hannah Strong, Nick Schager, Amy Nicholson, David Ehrlich, Mark Jackson, Josh Bell, Travis Hopson, Zoë Rose Bryant, Danielle Solzman, produced by Pavel Burian, David Lancaster, Ilya Stewart, Stephanie Wilcox, NEON, Hype Studios, Mosaic Films, Rumble Films (II), Charades, dominatrix, hotel room, inheritance, relationship, disaster, sexual content, language.
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Christopher Abbott – Hal
Zachary Wigon – Director
Micah Bloomberg – Screenwriter
Pavel Burian – Producer
David Lancaster – Producer
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Toronto
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (41) | Top Critics (9) | Fresh (40) | Rotten (1)
A jet-black romantic comedy hidden inside a twisty psychosexual thriller. Or maybe it’s the other way around.
May 18, 2023
Jeannette Catsoulis
New York Times
TOP CRITIC
This is a theatrical story told in a purposefully and self-consciously theatrical manner.
May 13, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Greg Nussen
Slant Magazine
TOP CRITIC
Despite the imperfections within Bloomberg’s screenplay, Abbott and Qualley sell the hell out of it – they possess an easy chemistry that fluctuates between desire, desperation and despisal.
March 7, 2023
Hannah Strong
Little White Lies
TOP CRITIC
There’s no way to get a total read on what Qualley’s protagonist is up to, which turns out to be the primary thrill of this snapshot of personal, professional, and class warfare.
September 16, 2022
Nick Schager
The Daily Beast
TOP CRITIC
The film has the confidence and generosity to allow the audience to ask its own questions before it makes its first (of many) giddily upending reveals.
September 16, 2022 | Rating: A-
Amy Nicholson
Variety
TOP CRITIC
What makes Sanctuary such a salaciously enjoyable slice of snack-sized fun is how it argues that some people have more to give than they would ever know without the right person to take it from them.
September 14, 2022 | Rating: B
David Ehrlich
indieWire
TOP CRITIC
The message–that women have usurped so many traditionally male roles–while not a groundbreaking concept in and of itself, has a particular logic here that’s engaging.
May 19, 2023
Mark Jackson
Epoch Times
Director Zachary Wigon plays with audience assumptions as he reveals the true dynamic between Hal and Rebecca, and Sanctuary continues to brilliantly defy expectations for its entire runtime.
May 18, 2023
Josh Bell
CBR
There are plenty of comfortable rom-coms out there, but Sanctuary is a surprisingly beguiling and witty romance for those who like their love stories to need a safe word.
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/5
Travis Hopson
Punch Drunk Critics
The summer movie season is synonymous with bombastic blockbusters, but “Sanctuary” shows that there are just as many fireworks that can arise from the unfiltered expression of our unruly human feelings
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 9/10
Zoë Rose Bryant
Next Best Picture
Margaret Qualley and Christopher Abbott never lose our attention as the duo are acting their hearts out in Sanctuary.
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 4.5/5
Danielle Solzman
Solzy at the Movies
With energetic insight and humor, Sanctuary scrapes and scrapes at these characters and the power dynamics between them.
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Mark Dujsik
Mark Reviews Movies…
Plot
Sanctuary follows the story of a dominatrix and her wealthy client, who tries to end their relationship but faces disastrous consequences when his attempt backfires.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Rotten Tomatoes doesn’t say anything goofy or funny or odd about the film Sanctuary.
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The Popes Exorcist 2023
The Pope’s Exorcist (2023)
74%RT Audience Score: 83%
Awards & Nominations: NA
The Pope’s Exorcist may not be a groundbreaking masterpiece, but it certainly delivers on its promise of a thrilling and entertaining horror flick. With Russell Crowe’s outstanding performance as the Vatican’s exorcist-in-chief and a self-aware tone that doesn’t take itself too seriously, the movie manages to rise above its cliches and offer a refreshing take on the subgenre. While it may not be for everyone, fans of horror and Crowe alike will find themselves thoroughly entertained by this devilishly fun ride.
The Pope’s Exorcist may not be the most groundbreaking horror movie out there, but it’s definitely worth a watch if you’re a fan of Russell Crowe or just enjoy a good old-fashioned exorcism flick. Sure, it’s a bit cheesy and predictable at times, but that’s part of the charm. Plus, who doesn’t love a good demon possession story? So grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready to be mildly spooked.
Production Company(ies)
2.0 Entertainment, Loyola Productions, Screen Gems, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Supernatural
Distributor
Screen Gems, Sony Pictures Entertainment
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Wide)
Filming Location(s)
Dublin, Ireland
MPAA / Certificate
R
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 43m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Apr 14, 2023 Wide
Genre(s)
Horror/Mystery & thriller
Keyword(s)
starring Russell Crowe, directed by Julius Avery, written by Michael Petroni, Evan Spiliotopoulos, R Dean McCreary, Chester Hastings, horror, mystery, thriller, box office, budget, reviewed by Chris Vognar, Oliver Jones, Stephen Romei, Luke Y Thompson, Matt Zoller Seitz, Bilge Ebiri, Crockett Houghton, Cody Leach, Steven Warner, Mel Valentin, James Croot, Austen Goslin, produced by Doug Belgrad, Michael Patrick Kaczmarek, Jeff Katz, MPAA rating R, possession, exorcism, Vatican, Father Gabriele Amorth, conspiracy, young boy, Russell Crowe as Father Gabriele Amorth, Daniel Zovatto, Alex Essoe, Franco Nero as The Pope, Laurel Marsden, Peter DeSouza-Feighoney
Worldwide gross: $70,229,138
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: $19,635,510
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $5,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $5,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,858
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $2,692,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Daniel Zovatto – Unknown
Alex Essoe – Unknown
Franco Nero – The Pope
Laurel Marsden – Unknown
Peter DeSouza-Feighoney – Unknown
Director – Julius Avery
Producers – Doug Belgrad, Michael Patrick Kaczmarek, Jeff Katz
Writers – Michael Petroni, Evan Spiliotopoulos, R. Dean McCreary, Chester Hastings
Director(s)
Julius Avery
Writer(s)
Michael Petroni, Evan Spiliotopoulos, R. Dean McCreary, Chester Hastings
Producer(s)
Doug Belgrad, Michael Patrick Kaczmarek, Jeff Katz
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (77) | Top Critics (17) | Fresh (38) | Rotten (39)
The Pope’s Exorcist will certainly never go down as a classic of the genre, but it’s better than it has any reason to be. Sometimes, the devil you know gets the job done just fine.
April 17, 2023
Chris Vognar
Rolling Stone
TOP CRITIC
An absurdly plotted, blood-drenched haunted house movie…with all the vitality and vivaciousness of a 15th-century corpse.
April 17, 2023 | Rating: 1/4
Oliver Jones
Observer
TOP CRITIC
It is a powerful historical drama and Crowe is outstanding as a real life Vatican exorcist-in-chief.
April 15, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/5
Stephen Romei
The Australian
TOP CRITIC
A tighter edit focused purely on the crazy bits could be a big cult hit; as is, it might be timed just right for a 4/20 viewing with plenty of smoke breaks.
April 14, 2023
Luke Y. Thompson
AV Club
TOP CRITIC
A watchable but far-from-special rehash of exorcism movie cliches.
April 14, 2023 | Rating: 2/4
Matt Zoller Seitz
RogerEbert.com
TOP CRITIC
The Pope’s Exorcist may not be a comedy, but it does sometimes feel like a joke. On us.
April 14, 2023
Bilge Ebiri
New York Magazine/Vulture
TOP CRITIC
If you’re a fan of horror or Russell Crowe, or better still a fan of both, this movie is a must-see.
April 22, 2023
Crockett Houghton
Film Inquiry
The self-aware tone and Crowe’s performance helps a fairly formulaic exorcism movie to stand out a bit. It still suffers greatly from the cliche’s and redundancy that has plagued this subgenera for decades.
April 22, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/5
Cody Leach
Cody Leach (YouTube)
But lest you think the movie sounds more serious or profound than it actually is, Avery is not the least bit interested in anything resembling depth or authenticity, and thank God for that.
April 21, 2023
Steven Warner
In Review Online
… the overall result manages to rise above its campy, pulp-horror plotting and well-worn, overused ideas.
April 21, 2023
Mel Valentin
That Shelf
The central mother-daughter tension is well sold by its compelling duo and it offers perhaps a more realistic view of the situation than your typical, simplistic, Hollywood resolution.
April 19, 2023
James Croot
Stuff.co.nz
The Pope’s Exorcist doesn’t match the bone-deep terror or filmmaking heights of the original Exorcist, but sets itself apart by building the whole movie on an understanding that its whole premise is a little silly.
April 19, 2023
Austen Goslin
Polygon…
Plot
The Pope’s Exorcist follows Father Gabriele Amorth, Chief Exorcist of the Vatican, as he investigates a young boy’s possession and uncovers a centuries-old conspiracy the Vatican has tried to keep hidden.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Fresh Kernels mentions that Russell Crowe delivers a “sanctified performance” in The Pope’s Exorcist.
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Other Peoples Children 2023
Other People’s Children (2023)
86%RT Audience Score: 80%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Other People’s Children is a film that delicately weaves together the complexities of human relationships and emotional dilemmas that everyone can connect to. Virginie Efira’s nuanced and fully drawn performance as Rachel brings compassion and believability to a woman facing complex choices. Director Rebecca Zlotowski’s natural vibrancy of the performances shines through, creating a finely embroidered garment of great cinematic depth. While the film may distance itself from its characters at times, it ultimately sneaks up on you with a depth and complexity of feeling that throws the glossy, idyllic opening moments into bittersweet relief. Other People’s Children is a triumph in its ability to capture the poignancy of a small-canvas story without giving into fatal self-seriousness.
Other People’s Children is a heartwarming film that explores the complexities of motherhood and relationships. The performances are top-notch, especially Virginie Efira who shines as the lead. The film manages to balance poignancy with humor, making it a delightful watch. It’s a refreshing take on the romantic comedy genre, and it’s definitely worth a watch, even if you’re not a parent yourself. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride!
Production Company(ies)
Foreign Language
Distributor
Music Box Films
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
SHOOT LOCATION(S):
Paris, France
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 44m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Drama/Comedy
Keyword(s)
starring Virginie Efira, Roschdy Zem, Victor Lefebvre, Chiara Mastroianni, Yamée Couture, Henri-Noël Tabary, directed by Rebecca Zlotowski, written by Rebecca Zlotowski, drama, comedy, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Ann Hornaday, Claudia Puig, Michael Phillips, Hanna Flint, Simon Abrams, Justin Chang, Christopher Llewellyn Reed, Wade Major, Kelly Vance, Kathy Fennessy, MPAA rating, Music Box Films, France 3 Cinéma, Les Films Velvet, motherhood, relationships, love, children, teacher, guitar lessons, French language, limited release.
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Roschdy Zem – Ali Ben Attia
Victor Lefebvre – Dylan
Chiara Mastroianni – Alice
Yamée Couture – Louanna
Henri-Noël Tabary – Vincent
Director – Rebecca Zlotowski
Producers – Frédéric Jouve, Marie Lecoq
Writer – Rebecca Zlotowski
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Sundance, Venice, Toronto
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (53) | Top Critics (15) | Fresh (49) | Rotten (4)
It tells a small-canvas story that loses none of its poignancy for refusing to overreach or give into fatal self-seriousness.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 4/4
Ann Hornaday
Washington Post
TOP CRITIC
Virginie Efira is such a luminous presence. She’s so nuanced and fully drawn.
May 17, 2023
Claudia Puig
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
TOP CRITIC
The film’s success starts and ends with the natural vibrancy of the performances, and Efira leads the way.
May 1, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Michael Phillips
Chicago Tribune
TOP CRITIC
Virginie Efira brings compassion and believability to a woman facing complex choices
May 1, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Hanna Flint
Time Out
TOP CRITIC
Sometimes Zlotowski gives herself more work by distancing herself from her characters, presumably to deny the sort of pat cynicism that could, at any moment, make Rachel a tragically overburdened symbol of modern womanhood.
April 21, 2023 | Rating: 2/4
Simon Abrams
RogerEbert.com
TOP CRITIC
Other People’s Children sneaks up on you, with a depth and complexity of feeling that throws those glossy, idyllic opening moments into bittersweet relief.
April 20, 2023
Justin Chang
Los Angeles Times
TOP CRITIC
There’s more to the film than one single thread, as all scenes come together in a finely embroidered garment of great cinematic depth.
May 18, 2023
Christopher Llewellyn Reed
Hammer to Nail
It’s beautiful… It’s human relationships and all these wonderful series of emotional dilemmas that everyone connects to.
May 17, 2023
Wade Major
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
Actor Efira does an admirable job with such a challenging character. Other People’s Children shows the parts usually left out of the amour fou romances and whirlwind enchantments that most people buy tickets to see.
May 12, 2023
Kelly Vance
East Bay Express
In its second half, Zlotowski’s fifth film breaks away from those two, and becomes something more bittersweet, if ultimately triumphant–that triumph, though, isn’t what Rachel was looking for throughout the film.
May 11, 2023
Kathy Fennessy
Seattle Film Blog
Not to give too much away, but as a woman without children, I found it quite affecting, even as [Virginie] Efira is a cool, if compelling performer.
May 10, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Kathy Fennessy
Video Librarian Magazine
Wonderfully well-observed and thoughtful relationship dramedy about motherly instincts.
May 5, 2023 | Rating: B+
Dennis Schwartz
Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews…
Plot
Rachel falls in love with Ali and becomes attached to his 4-year-old daughter, Leila, but loving other people’s children proves to be risky in this drama/comedy film.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Rotten Tomatoes doesn’t say anything goofy or funny or odd about the film Signed in.
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Air 2023
Air (2023)
95%RT Audience Score: 98%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Air, the latest film from director Ben Affleck, has been met with mixed reviews from critics. While some praise the exceptional script and cast, others find the film to be lacking in meaningful critique of society. However, one thing that cannot be denied is the effortlessly entertaining nature of the film. It’s a ground level, perfectly paced, and quietly inspirational movie that will knock you on your ass by the end. Matt Damon and Viola Davis deliver Oscar caliber work, and Affleck further cements himself as one of our greatest directors. A shoe may just be a shoe until someone steps into it, but Air steps up to the challenge and delivers a Triple Double of a film.
“Air” is like a slam dunk that hits the rim and bounces out. While it has its moments of charm and inspiration, it ultimately falls short of being a truly great sports movie. The cast, led by Matt Damon and Viola Davis, deliver solid performances, but the film’s attempts at social commentary feel forced and disingenuous. Still, if you’re a fan of underdog stories and ’90s nostalgia, “Air” might just be worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to be a game-changer.
Production Company(ies)
Amazon Studios, Mandalay Pictures, Skydance Media
Distributor
Amazon Studios
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Wide)
Filming Location(s)
Santa Monica, California, United States; Los Angeles, California, United States; Los Angeles Thirty Mile Zone, California, United States
MPAA / Certificate
R
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital, Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:1.85 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 52m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Apr 5, 2023 Wide
Genre(s)
Drama/Sports
Keyword(s)
starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Jason Bateman, Viola Davis, Chris Messina, Gustaf Skarsgård, directed by Ben Affleck, written by Alex Convery, drama, sports, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Wendy Ide, Bob Mondello, Donald Clarke, Maxwell Rabb, Kevin Maher, Liz Shannon Miller, John Rocha, Stephen Silver, T.J Callahan, Anthony Morris, Dennis Schwartz, produced by Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, David Ellison, Jesse Sisgold, Jon Weinbach, Madison Ainley, Jeff Robinov, Peter Guber, Jason Michael Berman, MPAA rating R, Michael Jordan, Nike, Air Jordan brand, basketball, game-changing partnership, rookie, mother, underdog shoe company, marketing triumph, contemporary culture, career-defining gamble, unconventional team, worth, immense talent, greatest of all time, Dolby Digital, Flat (1.85:1)
Worldwide gross: $88,101,640
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: $52,001,640
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $25,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $25,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,227
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $13,462,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Ben Affleck – Phil Knight
Jason Bateman – Rob Strasser
Viola Davis – Deloris Jordan
Chris Messina – David Falk
Gustaf Skarsgård – Horst Dassler
Director – Ben Affleck
Producers – Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, David Ellison, Jesse Sisgold, Jon Weinbach, Madison Ainley, Jeff Robinov, Peter Guber, Jason Michael Berman
Writer – Alex Convery
Director(s)
Ben Affleck
Writer(s)
Alex Convery
Producer(s)
Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, David Ellison, Jesse Sisgold, Jon Weinbach, Madison Ainley, Jeff Robinov, Peter Guber, Jason Michael Berman
Film Festivals
South by Southwest
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (235) | Top Critics (69) | Fresh (216) | Rotten (19)
For all its affable charm, there’s something slippery and disingenuous about this film.
April 9, 2023 | Rating: 2/5
Wendy Ide
Observer (UK)
TOP CRITIC
“Air” is effortlessly entertaining, but it wants to be about more than just the marketing triumph of an underdog shoe company.
April 9, 2023
Bob Mondello
NPR
TOP CRITIC
The film certainly invites fists to be pumped in celebration. It is less certain Air offers any meaningful critique of the society that gave us the sacred gutty.
April 7, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Donald Clarke
Irish Times
TOP CRITIC
Affleck’s return to the director’s chair is an exceptional success, stimulated by its script and cast.
April 7, 2023
Maxwell Rabb
Chicago Reader
TOP CRITIC
The decision to deny Jordan a character presence… conspicuously muzzles a pivotal character and it’s clumsily out of step with a movie that is otherwise the definition of carefully considered, precisely told, error-free film-making.
April 7, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Kevin Maher
Times (UK)
TOP CRITIC
As much as we can talk about the thematic resonance of Air, its impact is dependent on your personal connection to Michael Jordan. It’s like going to church as an atheist — you might be able to follow the story, but its meaning is lost.
April 7, 2023 | Rating: B-
Liz Shannon Miller
Consequence
TOP CRITIC
AIR is one of those ground level, perfectly paced, and quietly inspirational movies that will knock you on your ass by the end. Matt Damon and Viola Davis deliver Oscar caliber work and Ben Affleck further cements himself as one of our greatest directors!
April 10, 2023 | Rating: 4.5
John Rocha
The Outlaw Nation (Youtube)
An entertaining crowd-pleaser, with a cool period look and convincing performances by good actors playing, for the most part, well-known people.
April 10, 2023 | Rating: 4.5/5
Stephen Silver
Splice Today
A shoe is just a shoe until someone steps into it. A little ol sneaker company in Oregon was out to change that. Air is a Triple Double of a film.
April 9, 2023
T.J. Callahan
AWFJ.org
This is a subdued return to directing for Affleck, and while the small scale helps the story – these guys really do feel like underdogs – this isn’t a tale of sports excellence: these are marketing guys putting together a deal, and the winner is money.
April 9, 2023
Anthony Morris
It’s Better in the Dark
A fluff sports marketing drama that scores only when shooting uncontested layups.
April 9, 2023 | Rating: C+
Dennis Schwartz
Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews
If Air wasn’t an R-rated comedy, it would probably be a Hallmark channel movie. The story, however, is what keeps it compelling and entertaining the whole way through.
April 9, 2023
Korey Coleman
Double Toasted…
Plot
AIR is a drama/sports film directed by Ben Affleck that tells the story of the partnership between Michael Jordan and Nike’s basketball division, which revolutionized the world of sports and contemporary culture with the Air Jordan brand.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Fresh Kernels praises the “effortlessly entertaining” performances of Matt Damon and Viola Davis in Air.
Ben-Affleck.jpg
Sick of Myself 2023
Sick of Myself (2023)
88%RT Audience Score: 88%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Sick of Myself is a film that delves into the dark and twisted world of self-promotion and the lengths people will go to for attention. While some critics found the satire too crude and the targets too scattershot, others praised the committed performance from Kujath Thorp and the uncomfortable truths it reveals about our attention-craving society. The film’s pitch-black humor and nihilistic tone may not be for everyone, but it certainly leaves a lasting impression. As Kristoffer Borgli’s film runs out of things to say, it still manages to make audiences think twice about their own self-promotion and social media habits. Overall, Sick of Myself is a thought-provoking and insightful commentary on the nature of fame and narcissism in the age of social media.
Sick of Myself is like a rollercoaster ride that you’re not sure you want to be on, but once you’re strapped in, you can’t look away. The film takes a dark and twisted look at our obsession with self-promotion and social media, and it’s not afraid to make you uncomfortable. While some critics found it too crude or scatter-shot, I found it to be a scathing and insightful critique of our attention-hungry society. Plus, any movie that can make bandaged smoking look uncomfortably funny is worth a watch in my book.
Production Company(ies)
Foreign Language
Distributor
Utopia
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 37m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Comedy/Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Kristine Kujath Thorp, Eirik Sæther, Fanny Vaager, Sarah Francesca Brænne, Fredrik Stenberg Ditlev-Simonsen, Steinar Klouman Hallert, directed by Kristoffer Borgli, written by Kristoffer Borgli, comedy, drama, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Helen O’Hara, Richard Whittaker, Wendy Ide, Deborah Ross, Kevin Maher, Katie McCabe, Morgan Rojas, Edwin Arnaudin, Christopher Lloyd, Edward Porter, Victoria Luxford, produced by Andrea Berentsen Ottmar, Dyveke Bjørkly Graver, MPAA rating, Utopia, Garagefilm International AB, Film i Väst, Oslo Pictures.
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Eirik Sæther – Thomas
Fanny Vaager – self
Francesca Brænne – Emma
Fredrik Stenberg Ditlev-Simonsen – Yngve
Steinar Klouman Hallert – Stian
Director – Kristoffer Borgli
Producer – Andrea Berentsen Ottmar, Dyveke Bjørkly Graver
Writer – Kristoffer Borgli
Production Company – Garagefilm International AB, Film i Väst, Oslo Pictures
Distributor – Utopia
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Sundance, Cannes
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (55) | Top Critics (17) | Fresh (48) | Rotten (7)
It’s not subtle, but a committed performance from Thorp and some uncomfortable truths about the nature of self-promotion making this a thought-provoking satire.
April 27, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Helen O’Hara
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
If it wasn’t for [Kujath]Thorp, this would be intolerable, but as Signe she creates a fascinatingly off-putting character study of a menace to society.
April 27, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Richard Whittaker
Austin Chronicle
TOP CRITIC
Comedies don’t get much darker than this. It’s certainly not for everyone, but I loved it.
April 23, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Wendy Ide
Observer (UK)
TOP CRITIC
It fizzles out in the end. But it is well directed and well performed and it is on to something. Doesn’t this take to the nth degree what we all feel, at some level?
April 21, 2023
Deborah Ross
The Spectator
TOP CRITIC
The satire from the writer-director Kristoffer Borgli is inevitably too crude and the targets too scattershot.
April 21, 2023 | Rating: 2/5
Kevin Maher
Times (UK)
TOP CRITIC
Excessive self-medicating eventually lands Signe in hospital with a ‘mysterious illness’, and as she smokes through Eyes Without a Face-esque bandages, the film begins to find its uncomfortably funny feet.
April 21, 2023
Katie McCabe
Sight & Sound
TOP CRITIC
A 95-minute-long insanity spiral and nihilist’s delight.
May 16, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Morgan Rojas
Cinemacy
A scathing critique of attention hounds and fame-seekers in the age of social media.
May 10, 2023 | Rating: B+
Edwin Arnaudin
Asheville Movies
This pitch-black Norwegian comedy has insightful and important things to say about our attention-craving society, where everything is filtered through our narcissistic need to tell our story.
May 10, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Christopher Lloyd
The Film Yap
Kristoffer Borgli’s film soon runs out of things to say.
May 1, 2023 | Rating: 2/5
Edward Porter
Sunday Times (UK)
While not the easiest film to watch, Sick of Myself is an original story well told, and may make you think twice about why you’re putting up that braggy Instagram post (before doing it anyway).
April 27, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Victoria Luxford
City AM
It’s tricky to find much to laugh about in a film that encourages audiences to dismiss self-harm as simply idle narcisissm.
April 24, 2023 | Rating: 1/5
Saskia Baron
The Arts Desk…
Plot
In Sick of Myself, Signe and Thomas’ competitive relationship takes a dark turn when Thomas becomes a successful artist, leading Signe to create a new persona to regain attention and sympathy.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
NA
NA.jpg
Dungeons Dragons Honor Among Thieves 2023
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)
92%RT Audience Score: 94%
Awards & Nominations: NA
“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is a delightful romp through a fantastical world that manages to balance action, drama, and comedy with ease. Chris Pine and Michelle Rodriguez make for a dynamic duo, with Pine’s effortless charm and Rodriguez’s fierce fighting skills. The film’s campy tone and family-friendly humor make it a refreshing addition to the fantasy genre, more akin to “Shrek” than “Assassin’s Creed.” The filmmakers clearly understand that the key to taking a story like this seriously is not to take it seriously at all, resulting in a riotously entertaining and infinitely enjoyable movie that will leave audiences thoroughly entertained.
“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is a hilarious and action-packed adventure that will have you laughing and cheering from start to finish. Chris Pine and Michelle Rodriguez make the perfect duo, with Pine’s charm and Rodriguez’s badassery. The CGI effects are creative and add to the comedy, making this a must-see for anyone looking for a fun time at the movies. And don’t worry if you’ve never played D&D before, this movie is accessible to all. So grab your popcorn and get ready for a wild ride through the fantasy world of D&D.
Production Company(ies)
Entertainment One, Game/Toy Adaptation, Illumination, Latcham Pictures, Paramount Pictures, Vertigo Entertainment
Distributor
Paramount Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Wide)
Filming Location(s)
Iceland; Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
MPAA / Certificate
PG-13
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:2.39 : 1
-
Runtime:2h 14m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States, Canada
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Mar 31, 2023 Wide
Genre(s)
Fantasy/Adventure
Keyword(s)
starring Chris Pine, starring Michelle Rodriguez, starring Regé-Jean Page, directed by Jonathan M Goldstein, directed by John Francis Daley, written by Jonathan M Goldstein, written by John Francis Daley, written by Michael Gilio, written by Chris McKay, fantasy, adventure, action, comedy, PG-13, box office, $37.2M, reviewed by Nicholas Barber, reviewed by Richard Roeper, reviewed by Larushka Ivan-Zadeh, reviewed by Wenlei Ma, reviewed by Wendy Ide, reviewed by Bilge Ebiri, produced by Jeremy Latcham, produced by Brian Goldner, produced by Nick Meyer, Chris Pine as Edgin, Michelle Rodriguez as Holga, Regé-Jean Page as Xenk, Sophia Lillis as Doric, Chloe Coleman as Kira, Dungeons & Dragons, Honor Among Thieves, Paramount Pictures, Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos
Worldwide gross: $204,090,289
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: $92,490,289
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $75,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $75,000,000
Production budget ranking: 553
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $40,387,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Michelle Rodriguez – Holga
Regé-Jean Page – Xenk
Justice Jesse Smith – Simon
Sophia Lillis – Doric
Chloe Coleman – Kira
Director: Jonathan M. Goldstein, John Francis Daley
Producers: Jeremy Latcham, Brian Goldner, Nick Meyer
Writers: Jonathan M. Goldstein, John Francis Daley, Michael Gilio, Chris McKay
Director(s)
Jonathan M. Goldstein, John Francis Daley
Writer(s)
Jonathan M. Goldstein, John Francis Daley, Michael Gilio, Chris McKay
Producer(s)
Jeremy Latcham, Brian Goldner, Nick Meyer
Film Festivals
South by Southwest
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (268) | Top Critics (58) | Fresh (242) | Rotten (26)
Humour makes a welcome return to the fantasy genre.
April 4, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Nicholas Barber
BBC.com
TOP CRITIC
Chris Pine and Michelle Rodriguez have terrific buddy-movie chemistry in a fantasy film that deftly balances high-stakes action, warm drama and clever comedy.
April 3, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Richard Roeper
Chicago Sun-Times
TOP CRITIC
The camp tone is tongue-in-cheek and family-friendly – more Shrek than Assassin’s Creed. Homage and affectionate parody in equal parts…
April 3, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Larushka Ivan-Zadeh
Metro Newspaper (UK)
TOP CRITIC
Chris Pine is a genius bit of casting, because he not only brings goodwill but also his casual, unimposing swagger and a cheeky sense of frolic. April 3, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/5
Wenlei Ma
News.com.au
TOP CRITIC
That vanishingly rare entity – a riotously entertaining family-friendly film that hasn’t been painfully squeezed out of a comic-book franchise like the last, forlorn dregs of toothpaste from a long-dead tube.
April 2, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Wendy Ide
Observer (UK)
TOP CRITIC
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is the work of filmmakers who understand that the best way to take stuff like this seriously is not to take it seriously at all, and to have fun with it. Other movies could learn from the example.
April 1, 2023
Bilge Ebiri
New York Magazine/Vulture
TOP CRITIC
Dungeons And Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is a crowd pleasing, infinitely enjoyable and super FUN movie that never feels distant, heavy or inaccessible. Chris Pine provides a much needed wink and charm while Michelle Rodriguez kicks much ass in this one.
April 10, 2023 | Rating: 4.25/5
John Rocha
The Outlaw Nation (Youtube)
Silly, swaggering, swashbuckling screen adaptation of the popular, improvisational, role-playing, fantasy game. If you’ve never played D&D, learn a bit about it before you go.
April 9, 2023 | Rating: 7/10
Susan Granger
SSG Syndicate
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves uses CGI in many creative and funny ways. The effects lend themselves to the comedy.
April 9, 2023
Korey Coleman
Double Toasted
“Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is a lot of fun. A lot of fun. It’s energetic, campy and full of action. Has Chris Pine ever been this enjoyable to watch? He’s great. And no, you don’t need to know a thing about D&D to enjoy this movie.
April 8, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Shawn Edwards
Fox 4 Kansas City
A third-tier Lord of the Rings knockoff… [The material] just doesn’t lend itself to a movie.
April 7, 2023
Wade Major
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
“Dungeon & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is a fine film that delivers what the trailers promised. This fantasy action comedy is entertaining and left me content.
April 7, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Rosa Parra
In Their Own League…
Plot
A charming thief and his unlikely group of adventurers embark on an epic heist to retrieve a lost relic, but things go awry when they cross paths with dangerous enemies in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
No goofy, funny, or odd comments were found on Fresh Kernels about the film Signed in.
Jonathan-M.-Goldstein.jpg
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 2023
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
90%RT Audience Score: 94%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends the superhero genre and delivers a poignant and emotional story that will leave audiences in tears. James Gunn’s direction is impeccable, balancing humor and heart with ease, and completing Rocket’s transformation into one of Marvel’s greatest characters. While some may find the first 90 minutes to be a bit of a slog, the real energy kicks in and the film takes off into the stratosphere. The soundtrack is perfectly curated, enhancing the already stunning visuals and adding to the emotional weight of the story. This film is a fitting farewell to the Guardians and to James Gunn, who has left an indelible mark on the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the perfect mix of heart, humor, and action. James Gunn really outdid himself with this one, giving Rocket the spotlight he deserves and completing his transformation into one of Marvel’s greatest characters. Sure, the first 90 minutes can be a bit of a slog, but once the real energy kicks in, you’ll be on the edge of your seat. And let’s not forget about the awesome soundtrack that perfectly complements the film’s epic moments. Overall, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a tearfully moving and bonkers hilarious conclusion to the trilogy that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
Production Company(ies)
Ensemble, MARV, Marvel Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, Verse
Distributor
NA
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Wide)
Filming Location(s)
SHOOT LOCATION(S):
Atlanta, Georgia, United States; London, England, United Kingdom; London M25 Loop, England, United Kingdom
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:2h 30m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Sci-fi/Adventure
Keyword(s)
starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Vin Diesel, directed by James Gunn, written by James Gunn, sci-fi, adventure, action, fantasy, comedy, PG-13, box office gross $214.7M, reviewed by Josh Flanders, Matt Singer, Christy Lemire, Wenlei Ma, Dwight Brown, tt stern-enzi, Rachel Ho, Luis Bond, Chris Sawin, Matt Donato, Marie Asner, Sarah El-Mahmoud, produced by Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios.
Worldwide gross: $550,785,084
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: $234,542,579
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $100,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $100,000,000
Production budget ranking: 407
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $53,850,000
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Writer – James Gunn
Producer – Kevin Feige
Executive Producer – Louis D’Esposito
Executive Producer – Victoria Alonso
Executive Producer – Jonathan Schwartz
Executive Producer – Nik Korda
Executive Producer – Stan Lee (posthumous credit)
Music – Tyler Bates
Cast:
Chris Pratt – Peter Quill/Star-Lord
Zoe Saldana – Gamora
Dave Bautista – Drax the Destroyer
Vin Diesel – Groot (voice)
Bradley Cooper – Rocket (voice)
Karen Gillan – Nebula
Pom Klementieff – Mantis
Elizabeth Debicki – Ayesha
Sean Gunn – Kraglin/On-Set Rocket
Sylvester Stallone – Stakar Ogord
Michelle Yeoh – Aleta Ogord
Ving Rhames – Charlie-27
David Dastmalchian – Kurt
Michael Rooker – Yondu Udonta
Benedict Wong – Wong
Chris Hemsworth – Thor
Tessa Thompson – Valkyrie
Jeff Goldblum – Grandmaster
Taika Waititi – Korg (voice)
Julia Butters – Self
Miley Cyrus – Mainframe (voice)
Seth Green – Howard the Duck (voice)
Stan Lee – Watcher Informant (posthumous cameo)
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (349) | Top Critics (75) | Fresh (286) | Rotten (63)
While better than most recent Marvel or DC films, it definitely lacks the fun, buddy-film aspects and sincere relationships of the original in lieu of an exhausting mission-based story.
May 17, 2023
Josh Flanders
Chicago Reader
TOP CRITIC
Completes Rocket’ transformation from a footnote to one of Marvel’ greatest characters.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 8/10
Matt Singer
ScreenCrush
TOP CRITIC
Too often it feels like James Gunn made a playlist of songs he likes and then came up with scenes to go with them.
May 17, 2023
Christy Lemire
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
TOP CRITIC
Guardians 3 is a real warm and fuzzy movie that sometimes makes you forget that you’re a bit bored with the onslaught of superhero movies.
May 14, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/5
Wenlei Ma
News.com.au
TOP CRITIC
Be forewarned, it’s a slog for the first 90 minutes of its 2h 30m length. Then real energy kicks in.
May 11, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/4
Dwight Brown
DwightBrownInk.com
TOP CRITIC
James Gunn has an incredible way of balancing the mix of humor and heart… and has gotten bigger and better with that.
May 9, 2023 | Rating: A-
tt stern-enzi
WXIX-TV (Cincinnati, OH)
TOP CRITIC
Boy, does Gunn come out guns blazing.
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 8/10
Rachel Ho
Exclaim!
Gunn says goodbye to Marvel Studios in style, leaving his wake in the genre and giving us a valuable personal lesson that we must never forget: we all deserve a second chance [Full Review in Spanish]
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 5/5
Luis Bond
Diario las Américas
Tearfully moving with bonkers humor, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 gives the world’s most bad ass trash panda from space the most meaningful film in a trilogy overrun with super heroic and perfection obsessed a-holes.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 4.5/5
Chris Sawin
Reel Rundown
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a tailor-fitted exit for James Gunn from Marvel’s Cinematic Universe … the Gunniest Guardians yet in the best way.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Matt Donato
Perri Nemiroff (YouTube)
The heart of the film, though, is Rocket.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Marie Asner
Phantom Tollbooth
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is another stylish, laugh-out-loud, offbeat and most of all, Awesome Mix of being something beautifully human and alien at the same time.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Sarah El-Mahmoud
CinemaBlend…
Plot
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 follows the ragtag family of misfits as they embark on a new adventure, taking the team in a darker direction without sacrificing heart or humor.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
NA
NA.jpg
Wild Life 2023
Wild Life (2023)
85%RT Audience Score: 80%
Awards & Nominations: NA
“Wild Life” is a documentary that takes us on a journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Chile and Argentina, while also telling the story of the Tompkins’ conservation efforts. The film manages to balance the challenges of land preservation and self-preservation, all while showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Tompkins and their unwavering dedication to their cause. While some critics may view it as a PR stunt, the film’s warmth and epic storytelling exemplify how it’s never too late to make big changes. It’s a love story, an adventure, and a call to action all rolled into one, and it’s sure to inspire eco-tourists to visit these beautiful regions and see the impact of conservation efforts firsthand. Overall, “Wild Life” is a beautifully told and affecting documentary that proves not all billionaires suck.
“Wild Life” is a documentary that will make you want to pack your bags and head straight to Chile and Argentina to experience the breathtaking scenery for yourself. The film tells the inspiring story of the Tompkins and their conservation efforts, but also highlights the sense of entitlement they have for themselves and their plans to save the earth through capitalism. While some critics found the film a bit too sanitized, it’s still an informative and affecting watch. Plus, the outdoor photography is simply stunning. Overall, “Wild Life” is a reminder that not all billionaires suck and that it’s never too late to make big changes.
Production Company(ies)
Disney+, Topical
Distributor
Picturehouse
Release Type
Streaming, Streaming (Disney+), Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 33m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Documentary/Nature
Keyword(s)
starring Kristine Tompkins, Rick Ridgeway, Jimmy Chin, Claudio Alvarado, Michelle Bachelet, Dago Guzman, directed by Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, written by N/A, documentary, nature, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Christy Lemire, Josh Kupecki, Michael Rechtshaffen, Randy Myers, Nick Allen, Esther Zuckerman, Oscar Goff, Lael Loewenstein, Robin Clifford, Aaron White, Sean P. Means, PG-13 rating, conservationist, love story, Patagonia, The North Face, Esprit, National Parks, Chile, Argentina, private land donation, Picturehouse, National Geographic, National Geographic Documentary Films, Little Monster Films.
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Rick Ridgeway – Self
Jimmy Chin – Self
Claudio Alvarado – Self
Michelle Bachelet – Self
Dago Guzman – Self
Director: Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi
Producers: Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin, Bob Eisenhardt, Anna Barnes
Production Company: National Geographic, National Geographic Documentary Films, Little Monster Films
Distributor: Picturehouse
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
South by Southwest
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (29) | Top Critics (10) | Fresh (26) | Rotten (3)
It’s so well made, and puts you in the middle of some really breathtaking scenery.
May 17, 2023
Christy Lemire
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
TOP CRITIC
It’s a biographical portrait of the Tompkins, yes, but its focus is geared more toward their conservation and rewilding efforts and, more poignantly, toward Kristine.
April 27, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Josh Kupecki
Austin Chronicle
TOP CRITIC
Wild Life is committed in equal measure to the formidable challenges of land preservation and self-preservation.
April 21, 2023
Michael Rechtshaffen
Los Angeles Times
TOP CRITIC
Another breathtaking journey from Chin and Vasarhelyi, one that fits snugly in their canon about indomitable rule breakers who achieved greatness and broke their barriers by persistence and unwavering dedication.
April 19, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/4
Randy Myers
San Jose Mercury News
TOP CRITIC
A warming, epic story that exemplifies how it’s not too late to make big changes.
April 17, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Nick Allen
RogerEbert.com
TOP CRITIC
A documentary that comes off mostly as a PR stunt.
April 14, 2023 | Rating: C
Esther Zuckerman
indieWire
TOP CRITIC
As corny as it sounds, it is as if the Tompkins were trying to save the world so they could continue to live in it together.
May 17, 2023
Oscar Goff
Boston Hassle
It’s beautifully told. A little shapeless, but still affecting.
May 17, 2023
Lael Loewenstein
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
One fascinating aspect of “Wild Life” is the sense of entitlement the Tompkins and Yvon Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia, have for themselves and their lofty plans to save the earth through capitalism.
May 10, 2023 | Rating: B-
Robin Clifford
Reeling Reviews
An inspiring true story about conservationism that proves not all billionaires suck. A bit too sanitized, likely due to the filmmakers relationship with their subject, but informative nonetheless. Outdoor photography is unsurprisingly excellent.
May 8, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Aaron White
Feelin’ Film Podcast
Watching the movie may prompt some adventurous eco-tourists to visit Chile and Argentina, to see if it’s as beautiful and wild as it looks on the screen.
May 5, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/4
Sean P. Means
The Movie Cricket
This is not only an incredible story of environmental activism, but one of scrappy, rugged individuals not only scaling physical heights but succeeding against all odds in the business world. And it’s a love story.
May 3, 2023
Laura Clifford
Reeling Reviews…
Plot
WILD LIFE follows the love story of Kris and Doug Tompkins as they leave behind their successful outdoor brands to create National Parks throughout Chile and Argentina, culminating in the largest private land donation in history.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Wild Life features Kristine Tompkins, a conservationist who dedicated her life to protecting landscapes and creating National Parks throughout Chile and Argentina.
NA.jpg
Smoking Causes Coughing 2023
Smoking Causes Coughing (2023)
71%RT Audience Score: 52%
Awards & Nominations: NA
“Smoking Causes Coughing” is a film that defies explanation, but that’s part of its charm. Director Quentin Dupieux has created a surreal and irreverent world that will leave you in stitches. The film moves at a leisurely pace, allowing the perpetually strung-out jokes to land with maximum impact. The cast, including both human and puppet performers, is uniformly excellent and delivers enthusiastic performances. While the film may not have a cohesive plot or profound message, it’s a hilarious and unforgettable experience that will leave you gasping for air between laughs. Dupieux may not be for everyone, but for those who appreciate his unique brand of humor, “Smoking Causes Coughing” is a must-see.
“Smoking Causes Coughing” is the kind of movie that will leave you scratching your head and wondering what the heck you just watched. But in a good way! It’s a wild ride of irreverent humor and strung-out jokes that will have you giggling uncontrollably. Sure, it might not make a whole lot of sense, but who needs sense when you’ve got puppets and superheroes and existential farce? If you’re looking for a profound plot, this might not be the movie for you. But if you’re looking for a good time and a lot of laughs, then buckle up and get ready for a weirdly unforgettable experience.
Production Company(ies)
Foreign Language, Gaumont, VOD
Distributor
Magnolia Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
NR
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:2.20 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 20m
-
Language(s):French
-
Country of origin:France
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Mar 31, 2023 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Mar 31, 2023
Genre(s)
Comedy
Keyword(s)
comedy, French, superheroes, team, misadventures, giant turtle, retreat, planet Earth, Quentin Dupieux, directed by Quentin Dupieux, written by Quentin Dupieux, produced by Hugo Sélignac, starring Gilles Lellouche, Benzene, Vincent Lacoste, Methanol, Anaïs Demoustier, Nicotine, Jean-Pascal Zadi, Mercure, Oulaya Amamra, Ammonia, Alain Chabat, reviewed by David Fear, Noel Murray, Ryan Lattanzio, Simon Abrams, Josh Kupecki, Elisabeth Vincentelli, Oscar Goff, Patrick McDonald, Edwin Arnaudin, Walter Chaw, Michael McWhertor, Nicholas Bell, Magnolia Pictures, MPAA rating, box office performance, budget, limited release, streaming, in theaters, vudu, amazon-prime-video-us, itunes
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $5,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $5,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,821
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $2,692,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Vincent Lacoste – Methanol
Anaïs Demoustier – Nicotine
Jean-Pascal Zadi – Mercure
Oulaya Amamra – Ammonia
Alain Chabat – Self
Director: Quentin Dupieux
Producer: Hugo Sélignac
Writer: Quentin Dupieux
Director(s)
Quentin Dupieux
Writer(s)
Quentin Dupieux
Producer(s)
Hugo Sélignac
Film Festivals
Cannes
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (47) | Top Critics (9) | Fresh (43) | Rotten (4)
Whether something was, in fact, smoked during the making of it is irrelevant. The sheer irreverence of everything here… is more than enough to cause serious giggling fits.
April 3, 2023
David Fear
Rolling Stone
TOP CRITIC
It’s not a criticism to say that “Smoking Causes Coughing” doesn’t hold together, because cohesion isn’t what Dupieux is going for.
April 1, 2023
Noel Murray
Los Angeles Times
TOP CRITIC
Trying to explain Smoking Causes Coughing is like recounting a dream: The person listening might not care, and it might not mean anything to them, but it leaves a weirdly unforgettable impression on the spectator.
March 31, 2023 | Rating: B
Ryan Lattanzio
indieWire
TOP CRITIC
“Smoking Causes Coughing” moves unhurriedly from moment to moment, which makes its perpetually strung-out jokes even funnier.
March 31, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Simon Abrams
RogerEbert.com
TOP CRITIC
The cast is uniformly excellent and delivers enthusiastic performances, even the ones played by puppets, and the pacing is lively and not at all boring.
March 30, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Josh Kupecki
Austin Chronicle
TOP CRITIC
[Dupieux’s] latest might be his funniest yet…
March 30, 2023
Elisabeth Vincentelli
New York Times
TOP CRITIC
Does any of this amount to more than a series of deadpan non sequiturs? Not really, but if you’re looking for a profound or cohesive plot, Quentin Dupieux might not be the director for you.
April 7, 2023
Oscar Goff
Boston Hassle
This existential farce … would you expect anything else out of France? … skewers the superhero world so effectively that you might gasp between laughs. Could equal the playing field for anyone dealing with a superhero-genre-loving movie going mate. Ennui!
April 4, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Patrick McDonald
HollywoodChicago.com
Random to a fault, yet also just random enough to work — but barely.
April 4, 2023 | Rating: B-
Edwin Arnaudin
Asheville Movies
Smoking Causes Coughing resolves as the closest a film has come in a long time to nailing the cheeky vibe of Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life.
April 3, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Walter Chaw
Film Freak Central
This is a low-key hangout movie with remarkably minimal stakes and no big resolution.
April 3, 2023
Michael McWhertor
Polygon
There’s much to enjoy in this compounded scenario of stories even when it has the tendency to flatline. Unfortunately, there’s nothing truly substantive lurking behind its cheesy, plastic exteriors.
April 3, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Nicholas Bell
IONCINEMA.com…
Plot
The misadventures of a team of superheroes known as the Tobacco Force, including Benzene, Nicotine, Methanol, Mercury, and Ammonia, as they go on a mandatory retreat to strengthen their group cohesion and face off against the Emperor of Evil who wants to annihilate planet Earth in Smoking Causes Coughing.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
The cast includes Gilles Lellouche, Vincent Lacoste, Anaïs Demoustier, Jean-Pascal Zadi, Oulaya Amamra, and even Alain Chabat.
Quentin-Dupieux.jpg