Historically, January has been a dumping ground for studios, a month where films with less “promise” are sent to hopefully gain a portion of their budgets back. The winter months of a new year are known for flops and “bad” movies, as well as spots where unexpected hits can grow in the absence of competition. As we start the new decade, this January is no exception, a mix of quality and disappointment, some more surprising than others. Below are the studs (relatively speaking) and the duds of the month, and the inbetweens that really depend on taste.
DUD: The Turning
My feelings on this movie unfortunately coincide with my thoughts on the book off which it’s based (The Turn of the Screw by Henry James): Nothing. Happens. The atmosphere is typical “horror” movie vibe, though not a single part of this film is scary. And while you’re waiting around for something to actually happen, the ending arrives with little warning and no sense.
STUD: Underwater
It’s taut and tense, with a cast that gels and sells the hell out of this thing. The underwater sequences are pretty novel, and the score from Marco Beltrami is haunting. I wasn’t expecting much after the trailers, but color me surprised.
DUD: Like a Boss
I happen to be a big fan of Rose Byrn, but even that doesn’t help this unfunny, thoroughly dissatisfying “comedy.” Tiffany Haddish’s overreactive style doesn’t work here, and Selma Hayek is just a parody of a character (kind of the point, but it doesn’t work).
STUD: Bad Boys for Life
It’s stylish, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence are as awesome as ever, and it’s just the right amount of over-the-top. It’s also hilarious and features some impressive action. I figured a January release date would be a bad omen, but I was wrong.
DUD: Dolittle
This modern, fantasy incarnation of the classic Doctor Dolittle story is not worth your time. It doesn’t know what it wants to be, and wastes the talent of a fabulous voice cast. As much as we all love RDJ, his quirky portrayal adds nothing to the film and just feels weird.
STUD: The Gentlemen
It takes a little while to get going, but once it finds its footing, Giy Ritchie’s newest is a roaring good time. Smartly written, funny, and hilarious-action packed, this film will keep you on your toes until the very end.
DUD: The Grudge
2004’s mostly maligned remake of the Japanese film of the same name should have been a clear indication that we didn’t need an American remake. But you know Hollywood, and that means we were in for another reboot/sequel at some point. And trust me, we could have done without.
THE INBETWEENS: TAKE ‘EM or LEAVE ‘EM
The Rhythm Section
Blake Lively gives a pretty explosive performance, but everything else about this is standard revenge thriller.
Gretel and Hansel
A more supernatural take on the classic fairytale, it’s got a decent amount of creepiness.
New Decade Cinema 