It’s been a long while since we’ve had so many new movies premiering in one weekend. And the selection we have to choose from is pretty encouraging for the near future. Theaters are doing everything they can do for fans, hopefully, the movie studios will do the same by continuing to release the films we’ve been waiting to see.
Coming 2 America
Speaking of a movie we’ve been waiting to see, Eddie Murphy & Arsenio Hall, are back after 33 years and on a new adventure. Personally, I like the idea of seeing where some of our favorite classic characters are now. And in this sequel, we see pretty much everyone from the first film. Plus, a few fun surprises. Once again, like in 2019’s, Dolemite Is My Name, Wesley Snipes supplied not just a great new character, but some of the really good laughs. Even though this one isn’t as good as the first film, it is still very enjoyable. And because it’s streaming now on Amazon Prime Video, if you really love it, you can watch it over and over again.
Raya And The Last Dragon
At first, I thought this was gonna be a new type of Mulan story. As I watched it, it did have its moments where it reminded me of that movie, but in the end, it was a great adventure, all on its own. And with it, we got a new Disney “Princess” that is courageous & strong in Raya (Kelly Marie Tran). Along on her journey is Sisu The Dragon (Awkwafina). Together, they make for another classic combo of Disney characters. Just like Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket or Mulan & Mushu. The CGI is excellent and very colorful. Like a good adventure should have, there’s also plenty of action. Most importantly, there’s a great story that delivers a nice message of unity, and at times might leave you a lil teary-eyed as well as inspired. Definitely, a film for all ages. It’s playing in select theaters across the Phoenix area this weekend and streaming on Disney+ (for a fee).
Boogie
This wasn’t too bad. Decent performances by the entire cast. Newcomer, Taylor Takahashi, plays our main character, Boogie, who’s got NBA dreams but still struggling with his everyday problems. Mom & Dad each wanting different things for his career after high school, and a new girlfriend who’s willing to be his ride or die, if he’s willing to communicate with her. The late Hip Hop star, Pop Smoke, like everyone else, is ok, but not used very much other than just the face of Boogies on-court nemises. I like the idea of what the story was trying to present, but it never has any slam dunk moments to get you to care. I think if you check it out, it won’t make you feel like you completely wasted your money, but I don’t think you’ll want to spend anymore to see it again.
Chaos Walking
Filmed waaaaaay back in 2017, but held back by the studio, should tell you everything you need to know about how good this one is. Starring Tom Holland and Daisy Ridley, this sci-fi adventure, except for a couple of cute moments between Holland and Ridley, went nowhere fast. It’s based on the series of books by the same name, but I tend to think what we see on screen would be better in our own imagination. It kinda reminded me of another YA film from a few years ago, Jupiter Ascending, with Channing Tatum and Mila Kunis. Both films have great young talent, but stories that did nothing, even with good visuals to help support it. Instead of a theatrical release, this film might attract move viewers if it was released on a streaming service. If you’d like to see if this one is your cup of tea, you can catch it playing in theaters everywhere this weekend.
Billie Eilish: The World’s A Little Blurry
This one surprised me. I knew just enough about Billie to want to learn a little bit more about her and how she became the superstar she is today. It’s a very well done documentary about her rise to fame and life on the road. All while dealing with family and a troubled relationship. I don’t think this is gonna be a film for the older audience’s, however, i think the younger one’s will love this behind the scenes look at Billie and those you she surrounds her self with. It’s playing in select theaters in the valley this weekend.