KANSAS CITY, Mo —
1) NIGHTCRAWLER (R)
Open Road Films
RUSS
Jake Gyllenhaal gives a menacing performance in the dark and disconcerting thriller, “Nightcrawler.” Gyllenhaal plays a disturbed and creepy freelance cameraman who sells grisly crime and accident footage to local news stations thirsty for ratings. When things aren’t violent enough, Jake’s sociopathic character begins taking matters into his own hands.
SHAWN
Dark is challenging and poignant. “Nightcrawler” is a small movie that that handles the weightiness of its big themes and showcases a brilliant Jake Gyllenhaal who delivers one heck of a huge performance.
RUSS
Troubling and cynical, “Nightcrawler” provides plenty of fodder for post-movie coffee talk about the ethics of local TV news and the public’s lust for the sensational.
RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags
2) ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY(PG)
Walt Disney Pictures
RUSS
Steve Carrell and Jennifer Garner lead the cast in Disney’s adaptation of the popular children’s book, “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.” A talented cast provides some family friendly laughs. It’s a likable, enjoyable, pretty good, not bad movie.
SHAWN
“Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” is harmless throw away fun. Yes, it probably should have aired on Disney Jr. or Nickelodeon but that’s why this is the perfect movie for home entertainment…especially if you have young kids. Some call it an electronic baby sitter.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 2 Popcorn Bags
3) ROSEWATER (R)
Open Road Films
RUSS
Jon Stewart from Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show,” makes his film directorial debut with “Rosewater.” The drama tells the true story of an Iranian journalist accused of espionage who spent 118 days of torment in an Iranian prison after appearing on “The Daily Show.”
SHAWN
“Rosewater” is commendable if not somewhat flawed. John Stewart proves that he is somewhat capable behind the camera. But also demonstrates the flaws that first time directors usually have.
RUSS
While the film lacks the pace and intensity that would have made it a truly riveting drama, “Rosewater” is a competent and heartfelt story told with sincerity.
4) ADDICTED (R)
LionsGate
SHAWN
“Addicted” plays like an urban “Fifty Shades Grey.” A young woman has a sexual addiction. Lots of steamy sex scenes but very little acting and no plot.
RUSS: Did not screen
SHAWN: 2 Popcorn Bags
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