Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 24 are a western starring Liam Hemsworth and Woody Harrelson, a sports drama starring Johnny Simmons, Paul Giamatti and Ethan Hawke and a single-setting thriller starring Blake Lively.

‘The Duel’

Liam Hemsworth plays a Texas Ranger who investigates a series of unexplained deaths in a town called Helena. Woody Harrelson also stars. (R – 110 minutes)

On the outside, “The Duel” looks incredibly promising as it stars two relatively talented actors and is a western – which, in and of itself is a positive attribute considering we see so few of them nowadays. Unfortunately, on the inside, it is a complete mess as it is moves along at a placid pace, suffers from several tonal switches and eventually loses all suspense whatsoever. What is left is a neat atmosphere and a couple of strong performances – especially from Woody Harrelson – but viewers need a lot more than that to remain interested in this tale or engaged in the mystery as it unfolds. (2 Stars)

‘The Phenom’

Johnny Simmons plays a major-league rookie pitcher who cannot find the plate and is sent down to the minor leagues and begins sessions with an unorthodox sports psychologist (Paul Giamatti). In the process, hidden conflicts with his overbearing father (Ethan Hawke) are brought to light. (NR – 88 minutes)

Those seeing “The Phenom” expecting a baseball flick will be sorely disappointed. Very little of the new sports drama takes place on the field. Instead, it takes place on couches and in offices and in dimly-lit rooms. You could essentially say that it has been benched with any actual action making way for long-winded conversations. Granted, there is nothing wrong with that so long as said conversations are compelling, insightful and emotionally relevant – three qualities that cannot be used to describe anything in this particular motion picture.Stars Johnny Simmons, Paul Giamatti and Ethan Hawke give strong performances but the material never matches their talent. (2 Stars)

‘The Shallows’

Blake Lively plays a surfer who, a mere 200 yards from shore, is attacked by a great white shark with her short journey to safety becoming the ultimate contest of wills. (PG-13 – 87 minutes)

“The Shallows” follows in the footsteps of other single-setting thrillers like “Frozen” and “Buried” and, for the most part, succeeds. The new shark-attack flick’s only failing is its uneven timing. Unlike in those aforementioned efforts, director Jaume Collet-Serra’s film features all of its action in the final 20 minutes. Everything that comes before that is certainly suspenseful but Collet-Serra does not find enough for star Blake Lively to do to maintain a high level of excitement throughout. Having said that, you are bound to be entertained and even a little reluctant to dip your toes into the next ocean you visit while on vacation this summer. (3 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 17 are a comedy starring Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart, a horror flick feeding off coulrophobia and a sequel to one of the most beloved animated adventures of this generation.

‘Central Intelligence’

Dwayne Johnson plays a one-time bullied geek who grew up to be a lethal CIA agent that comes home for his high school reunion. Claiming to be on a top-secret case, he enlists the help of a former “big man on campus” turned accountant (Kevin Hart). Shoot-outs, double-crosses and espionage ensue. (PG-13 – 114 minutes)

It is perhaps ironic that “Central Intelligence” lacks any intelligence whatsoever – much less originality. The new comedy is essentially a slightly modified version of just about every other movie starring Kevin Hart. For some, that may sound like an appealing thing but for many others it is an annoying thing. Hart’s co-star Dwayne Johnson manages to raise the flick above “Ride Along” levels of stupidity but there is only so much that he can do with what is essentially a one-joke plot. Aside from a computer-generated younger (and fatter) version of Johnson and a handful of amusing cameos, there is very little to recommend here. (2 Stars)

‘Clown’

Andy Powers plays a father who finds a clown suit and decides to wear it for his son’s birthday party. However, he soon discovers that the suit turns the wearer into a killing machine. (R – 99 minutes)

“Clown” is far more effective in its first half as it carefully treads the thin line between bizarre and berserk than it does in the second half when it falls on the latter side of said line The new comedic horror flick begins with a fun self-awareness that allows it to be both a bit scary and wildly funny at the same time. These fun moments are reminiscent of R.L. Stine’s “Goosebumps” property – albeit with a far more adult approach. However, the deeper writer/director Jon Watts slides down the rabbit hole, the darker, more violent and less fun the events become. (3 Stars)

‘Finding Dory’

Ellen DeGeneres voices a friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish who sets out on a mission to reunite with her loved ones and learns a few things about the real meaning of family along the way. (PG – 100 minutes)

Perhaps it is because expectations were too high with “Finding Nemo” remaining one of Pixar’s greatest animated achievements but “Finding Dory” disappoints in that it is just great instead of spectacular. Having said that, the new sequel is still pretty special as it touches the hearts of viewers of all ages with a tale about the true definition of family, living with disability and – most emotionally resonant of all – accepting that unforeseeable events that happen over the course of one’s lifetime and not set-in-stone plans are the true path to happiness. Moreover, it is terrifically fun with an exciting story and lovable characters. In a word, it’s memorable. (4 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 10 are a scary sequel starring Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, a western starring Michael Paré and a fantasy actioner based on a video game franchise.

‘The Conjuring 2’

Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson reprise their roles as Lorraine and Ed Warren, who, in one of their most terrifying paranormal investigations, travel to north London to help a single mother raising four children alone in a house plagued by malicious spirits. (R – 133 minutes)

Much like its predecessor, “The Conjuring 2” is a disappointingly generic affair that heavily borrows from other far better horror films and lacks any subtlety whatsoever. As a fright flick, it fails miserably, only occasionally showcasing something even remotely scary. However, it is somewhat slightly effective as a romantic drama (of all things) as the love story depicted between Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson’s Lorraine and Ed Warren is surprisingly resonant. Unfortunately, this is – understandingly – a small subplot and viewers must wade through an awful lot of haunted house hogwash in order to enjoy those touching moments. (2 Stars)

‘Traded’

Michael Paré plays a sharpshooter turned rancher who goes from happily married father of two to a man on a mission after the tragic death of his son and the disappearance of his daughter. With the help of an unlikely companion (Kris Kristofferson), he leaves a trail of gun smoke and dead bodies in his wake on a mission to bring his daughter home and to protect what little family he has left. (NR – 100 minutes)

“Traded” is paced a bit too leisurely but fans of the western genre are not likely to mind much as the new movie exudes the good old grit on which they thrive. In fact, the flick feels like an alternate version of “Taken” that exists in the world of the old west. The acting is occasionally over the top and melodramatic and the entire affair relies quite heavily on genre cliches but, for the most part, it makes for an entertaining and emotionally engaging experience. Actor Michael Paré gives a commanding performance as the protagonist but the true star here is the authentic atmosphere. (3 Stars)

‘Warcraft’

The peaceful realm of Azeroth stands on the brink of war as its civilization faces a fearsome race of invaders: orc warriors fleeing their dying home to colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces destruction and the other faces extinction. From opposing sides, two heroes are set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their family, their people, and their home. (PG-13 – 100 minutes)

“Warcraft” is not only a contender for worst movie of 2016 but also a contender for worst movie of all time. Granted, that may be a bit of an exaggeration but it gives one the idea of just how unwatchable the new fantasy actioner based on a video game franchise truly is. With mind-numbing action sequences, underdeveloped computer-generated characters and a preposterous plot, there is absolutely nothing for viewers to grab a hold of, leaving them feeling as though they have entered the most inner-circle of Hell with no escape possible for 100 minutes. (1 Star)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 3 are a romantic drama starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, a comedic mockumentary starring Andy Samberg and an actioner sequel starring four computer-generated turtles.

‘Me Before You’

Emilia Clarke plays a contented small town Englishwoman who enters into an unexpected relationship with a wealthy, recently-paralyzed Londoner (Sam Claflin) who hires her as his caretaker. (PG-13 – 110 minutes)

“Me Before You” will not only make you cry in the moment harder than any other movie this year but will also cause you emotional distress for several days thereafter. The new romantic drama adapted from Jojo Moyes’ novel will simultaneously break and mend your heart. Stars Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin have remarkable chemistry with one another while also authentically depicting their individual characters’ heartache. The entire film is a fantastic affair that will move you beyond words but Clarke’s expressive performance amplifies the effect to levels rarely achieved in modern day motion pictures. (5 Stars)

‘Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping’

Andy Samberg plays a singer/rapper who faces a crisis of popularity after his sophomore album flops, leaving his fans, sycophants and rivals all wondering what to do when he’s no longer the dopest star of all. (R – 87 minutes)

Any one of Andy Samberg’s Lonely Island digital shorts on “Saturday Night Live” is better than “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping.” That is not to say that new new comedic mockumentary lacks laughs because there it does possess its fair share of funny moments. But while the smaller jokes work, the larger joke wears thin as Samberg and company desperately try to stretch what should have been a series of digital shorts into a feature-length film. To make matters worse, the songs on its soundtrack are not the least bit catchy much less memorable. In fact, they are actually annoying. (2 Stars)

‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows’

As Shredder joins forces with mad scientist Baxter Stockman and henchmen Bebop and Rocksteady to take over the world, the Turtles must confront an even greater nemesis: the notorious Krang. (PG-13 – 112 minutes)

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” is nothing but noisy nonsense. The new sequel to the 2014 reboot of the classic franchise is a large step down from what was already a pitiful launch. The human characters – portrayed by Megan Fox, Will Arnett and Stephen Amell – provide some decently grounded scenes early on but the computer-generated creatures quickly take over the screen with all-consuming action that boggles the brain. Bebop and Rocksteady are fantastic fun but before long the flick feels more like a big screen, balls-to-the-wall edition of “Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers” than an update to a cherished childhood memory. (2 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 27 are a comedy starring Adam Sandler and David Spade and a superhero sequel starring James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jennifer Lawrence.

‘The Do Over’

Adam Sandler and David Spade play down-on-their-luck guys who decide to fake their own deaths and start over with new identities only to find the people they are pretending to be are in even deeper trouble. (NR – 100 minutes)

“The Do Over” could have easily been done without. The new comedy starring Adam Sandler and David Spade certainly has its funny moments but they are too few and far between. Most importantly – and offensively – though are the third act revelations that attempt to tug on the heartstrings of viewers who mere minutes before were being asked to laugh at homoerotic humor and mean-spirited mischief. Sandler and Spade make an entertaining team, as usual, and it is far from the failures that were “Jack and Jill” and “That’s My Boy” but by now we know the duo is capable of much better than this seemingly half-assed effort. (2 Stars)

‘X-Men: Apocalypse’

Oscar Isaac plays the world’s first mutant whose emergence prompts the X-Men to unite in order to defeat his extinction level plan. Others stars include James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jennifer Lawrence. (PG-13 – 136 minutes)

Much like “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” the highlight of “X-Men: Apocalypse” is Evan Peters as Quicksilver in a scene that is a groundbreakingly visual masterpiece in and of itself. Unfortunately, it only lasts a few minutes (or a few nanoseconds if you have Quicksilver’s mutant abilities) while the new superhero sequel that extends beyond the 2-hour mark is overstuffed with cliche characters and uninspired subplots. It is a rather messy and incoherent entry in a franchise that started strong back in 2000 but has suddenly lost a lot of its creative energy. It remains relatively entertaining but lacks that something special. (3 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 20 are an odd dramedy starring Colin Farrell and an old-fashioned noir starring Adrien Brody.

‘The Lobster’

Colin Farrell plays a single man who, in a dystopian near future, is taken to a hotel where he is obliged to find a romantic partner in 45 days or be transformed into a beast and sent off into the woods. (R – 118 minutes)

“The Lobster” is bizarre beyond words. On the outside, its strangeness may be a bit daunting. But once you crack its shell and sink your teeth into its hilariously eccentric meat you will be hooked, unable to turn away from the freaky fairy tale unfolding before your eyes. You are bound to be at least a bit disturbed by writer/director Yorgos Lanthimos’s new dramedy but you are also likely to laugh out loud a lot at the outlandish occurrences and dry dialogue delivery. It is also thoroughly thought-provoking, posing intellectually and emotionally challenging questions about romantic conformity. (4 Stars)

‘Manhattan Night’

Adrien Brody plays a New York City tabloid writer with an appetite for scandal who is drawn into a very nasty case of sexual obsession and blackmail – one that threatens his job, his marriage and his life. Yvonne Strahovski also stars. (R – 113 minutes)

“Manhattan Night” is an old-fashioned noir that may please people who have been longing for a new slow-burning, atmospheric private eye flick but bore most everyone else. Writer/director Brian DeCubellis skillfully adapts Colin Harrison’s novel in an authentic way that evokes cinema’s golden era. Unfortunately, the story is lackluster, absent of significant surprises or the thrills required to keep viewers interested and engaged. Eventually, the only thing that prevents one from completely giving up on the movie before the no-longer-alluring mystery is solved is star Adrien Brody’s veritable performance. No other living actor could more credibly portray this character. (1 Star)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 13 are a hostage thriller starring George Clooney and a pair of action-packed comedies set on the other side of the border.

‘Being Charlie’

Nick Robinson plays a young man whose father, a former film star currently running for Governor of California, has staged an intervention with the goal of forcing him to address – and, hopefully, conquer – his substance abuse issues. He reluctantly enters a new adult facility where his budding romance with a kindred spirit (Morgan Saylor) looks like it might be an antidote to his strained relationship with a highly preoccupied father and overly indulgent mother. (NR – 97 minutes)

“Being Charlie” appears to have been made with plenty of passion, good intentions and heartfelt exploration into the thought processes of an addict but it fails to resonate with viewers due to its insistence that we feel empathy for a character that is incredibly undeserving of it. Director Rob Reiner paints the new drama’s protagonist in a way that suggests that he is incapable of taking responsibility for his own actions. Yet Reiner implies we should sympathize with his suffering nonetheless. We are initially intrigued by the character study but quickly disengage when its depthlessness is discovered. (2 Stars)

‘I Am Wrath’

John Travolta plays a former Black Ops agent who witnessed his wife’s death at the hands of a street gang. When corrupt cops let the prime suspect walk, he takes the law into his own hands. Joined by a former comrade-in-arms (Christopher Meloni), he uncovers a conspiracy that leads to the upper ranks of government. (NR – 92 minutes)

As far as revenge thrillers go, “I Am Wrath” is a far cry from “Taken” but it certainly still entertains nonetheless. Star John Travolta gives a believable and commanding performance in the film, which is at its best when it is dripping with raw emotion or shifting itself into hi-octane action mode. However, there exists a tonal imbalance with an occasional attempt at humor that was perhaps intended to diffuse tension but instead undermines the story’s intensity. Co-star Christopher Meloni is initially tied to these comedic moments and his character is therefore at first unwelcome before eventually revealing himself to have been indispensable. (3 Stars)

‘Money Monster’

George Clooney plays a bombastic TV personality whose popular financial network show has made him the money wiz of Wall Street. But after he hawks a high tech stock that mysteriously crashes, an irate investor (Jack O’Connell) takes him, his crew and his ace producer (Julia Roberts) hostage live on air. They must then find a way to keep themselves alive while simultaneously uncovering the truth behind a tangle of big money lies. (R – 90 minutes)

“Money Monster” has a stellar cast and a potentially captivating real-time gimmick but, unfortunately, it spends so much time spinning its wheels and spouting out nonsense that all of its positive attributes fall by the wayside. The new hostage thriller is uncommonly verbose, leaving viewers feeling dumbfounded as the story’s specifics fly straight over their heads. Moreover, it completely misses a prime opportunity to make hard-hitting social commentary. Some slightly comedic moments are also ill-suited for such a seriously plotted motion picture. But at least its actors give great performances – especially Jack O’Connell. (2 Stars)

‘Search Party’

Thomas Middleditch plays a man who travels to Mexico in an effort to win back his girlfriend after his friends (Adam Pally and T.J. Miller) ruin his wedding. However, when he is carjacked and left naked, said friends set out in search of him but get side-tracked several times along the way. (R – 93 minutes)

Look no further – the year’s funniest comedy so far has arrived. “Search Party” is a nonstop, pedal-on-the-gas and balls-to-the-wall laugh riot. Some may write the film off as a steaming pile of nonsense but others will appreciate its insane silliness. Viewers are taken on a ridiculously wild ride to Mexico that comes complete with plenty of side-splitting pit-stops along the way to a hilariously harebrained final act. Its uniquely outrageous (and often offensive) sense of humor is certainly not for everybody but those with a flexible funny-bone will love every minute of the absurd debauchery. (4 Stars)

‘Sundown’

Devon Werkheiser and Sean Marquette play high school seniors who sneak off to Puerto Vallarta during spring break while their parents are out of town, hoping to party with a high school crush (Sara Paxton). Once there, they meet a mysterious local beauty (Camilla Belle) who they believe steals a priceless family heirloom that then falls into the hands of a dangerous gangster. (R – 103 minutes)

“Sundown” has great energy, strong passion and – best of all – big laughs. The new action-packed romantic comedy is tremendously fun from beginning to end as it takes viewers on vacation to a beautiful-yet-chaotic Puerto Vallarta. Each insane situation leads to an even wackier one in rapid succession, resulting in enormous entertainment value. However, it is the film’s heart that sets it apart as well as its love of music as it features special appearances from the several of the world’s top DJs including Steve Aoki, Paul Oakenfold, Chris Lake and Adrian Lux. (3 Stars)

‘The Trust’

Nicolas Cage and Elijah Wood play police officers who follow a trail that leads directly to a custom bank-style vault built into the back room freezer of a small grocery store. They put a plan into motion to rob the vault and split whatever they find inside. But by the time they figure out what the vault contains, it is already too late to turn back. (R – 93 minutes)

Directors Alex and Benjamin Brewer must have known that all you have to do to make a great movie is put actors Nicolas Cage and Elijah Wood in a room together and give them some meaty characters to chew on. That is essentially the formula for “The Trust,” a new thriller in which the two stars portray corrupt cops who attempt to pull off the perfect heist. Cage is crazy good as someone with no conscience whatsoever while Wood is an ideal foil as he struggles with the morality – and potentially dangerous consequences – of their actions. (4 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 6 is the latest sequel in the Marvel superhero universe and an ensemble drama arriving just in time for Mother’s Day.

‘Captain America: Civil War’

Chris Evans reprises his role as Captain America who, after another incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, desires for the superheroes to remain free to defend humanity without government interference while Iron Man (Robert Downey, Jr.) supports government oversight and accountability. (146 minutes)

On some extremely superficial level, “Captain America: Civil War” succeeds in what it sets out to do. After all, the new sequel is essentially just an excuse to pit two competing camps of superheroes against one another. The battle sequence at the center of it all is one of the grandest spectacles seen yet in a Marvel movie. But that is only one scene in a film that is otherwise overlong and overpopulated with characters. Paul Rudd’s Ant-Man, with a welcome wit that is a relief from so much self-seriousness, remains the high point in a sea of increasingly insipid superheroes. (3 Stars)

‘Mothers and Daughters’

Selma Blair plays a rock photographer who is riding a career high when an unlikely and unexpected pregnancy forces her to turn her lens inward. As she slowly comes to terms with what it might mean to change her life forever, she discovers with fresh eyes her own relationship with her estranged mother. Courteney Cox, Christina Ricci, Susan Sarandon, Mira Sorvino and Sharon Stone also star. (PG-13 – 90 minutes)

So long as you go in understanding that “Mothers and Daughters” is more a series of insightful dialogues than it is a conventional narrative, you are likely to emerge satisfied and perhaps even a little emotionally enlightened. The thing that makes director Paul Duddridge’s new ensemble drama work is its exceptionally talented cast. Viewers become genuinely invested in each of these women’s stories because the sincerity of the actresses’ performances. Having said that, some viewers may become frustrated, finding the back-and-forth between the characters to be a bit on the monotonous side. (3 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, April 29 is a dramedy in which Susan Sarandon plays a “s’mother” and a musical drama from “Once” and “Begin Again” filmmaker John Carney.

‘The Meddler’

Susan Sarandon plays an aging widow from New York City who follows her daughter (Rose Byrne) to Los Angeles in hopes of starting a new life after her husband passes away. J.K. Simmons also stars. (PG-13 – 100 minutes)

Similar to Sally Field in “Hello, My Name is Doris” released earlier this year, Susan Sarandon gives an often over-the-top performance in “The Meddler” that is reason enough to see the new dramedy. The actress is at her absolute best as she effectively taps into the goofy and serious qualities of her character simultaneously. As a result, we are as empathetic to her plight as we are entertained by her antics. Viewers will likely emerge with a smile on their face and a newfound understanding of their own “s’mother.” Meanwhile, J.K. Simmons is incredibly charming in a supporting role. (4 Stars)

‘Sing Street’

Ferdia Walsh-Peelo plays a young boy who, growing up in Dublin during the 1980’s, escapes his strained family life by starting a band with the aim of winning the heart of a mysterious and beautiful girl (Lucy Boynton). (PG-13 – 106 minutes)

“Sing Street” belts out a beautiful tune about love, creativity and ambition – one to which anyone can relate. The new huge-hearted musical drama from “Once” and “Begin Again” filmmaker John Carney is infectiously optimistic as it tells the story of a boy who comes of age in a variety of ways. Aside from entertaining viewers with incredibly charming characters, an amusing sense of humor and a spectacular soundtrack of original songs, it inspires them to find enchantment in their own lives, chase it to the ends of the earth and then drive it like they stole it. (5 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, April 15 are a voyeurism chiller, an historical thriller and a live-action adaptation of an animated classic.

‘13 Cameras’

PJ McCabe and Brianne Moncrief play newlyweds who move into a new home having no ideas that their landlord (Neville Archambault) has installed secret cameras in it. They soon find out that their marital issues are nothing in comparison to the monster that watches their every move. (NR – 87 minutes)

Certain movies make you scared to go to particular places. For example, “Jaws” made it impossible to go swimming in the ocean while “Frozen” made many people think twice about boarding a ski lift. “13 Cameras,” on the other hand, makes you uneasy even being in your own home. The new voyeurism thriller sends chills down your spine and creates within you a paranoia about ominous observers that lingers long after the end credits have rolled. The film’s strongest asset is actor Neville Archambault, whose macabre mannerisms and frightening facial expressions alone will disturb you beyond belief. (3 Stars)

‘The Adderall Diaries’

James Franco plays a novelist who, paralyzed by writer’s block and an escalating Adderall dependency, simultaneously delves into the details of a murder case with the help of a reporter (Amber Heard) and reunites with his estranged father (Ed Harris). He is forced to separate truth from lies and fact from fiction, ultimately leading him to finally reconcile his past and confront his future. (R – 105 minutes)

Judging from star James Franco’s committed performance, the actor really, really wanted “The Adderall Diaries” to be good. Unfortunately, try as he might, the new drama never amounts to much. Writer/director Pamela Romanowsky, working from a memoir by Stephen Elliott, frequently jumps from plot point to plot point and tone to tone without any clear connection or much needed subtlety. Feeling as though you have hyperactivity and impulse control issues is likely the effect Romanowsky intended for her audience but it does not make more a particularly pleasant – let alone coherent – experience. (1 Star)

‘Colonia’

Emma Watson plays a young woman whose desperate search for her abducted boyfriend (Daniel Brühl) draws her into the infamous Colonia Dignidad – an ex-Nazi cult from which nobody ever escaped. (NR – 110 minutes)

“Colonia” is a highly effective thriller that features a despicable bad guy to get you all riled up and some tremendous tension to keep you on the edge of your seat. Having said that, while the movie does not disparage the true story of Colonia Dignidad from which it is derived, it does not necessarily contribute anything significant to it either. Some may discount the film because of that but others will appreciate its sheer entertainment value. Michael Nyqvist makes for one powerfully frightening villain while co-writer/director Florian Gallenberger sustains a level of suspense from which your nerves will be unable to escape. (3 Stars)

‘The Jungle Book’

Neel Sethi plays an orphan boy who is raised in the jungle with the help of a pack of wolves (Lupita Nyong’o), a bear (Bill Murray) and a black panther (Ben Kingsley). Other voice talents include Idris Elba, Scarlett Johansson and Christopher Walken. (PG – 111 minutes)

Director Jon Favreau brings “The Jungle Book” to life in a magical and breathtaking way that would make Walt Disney exceptionally proud. The new adaptation of one of the most memorable animated masterpieces from Disney’s vault pays enough homage to the classic to charm those familiar with it while simultaneously reinventing it as a grand spectacle that wraps itself around you, truly transporting you to its lavish setting. Favreau and company have gone above and beyond the “bare necessities,” using visual ingenuity to create an experience that is absolutely the next best thing to an actual trip to the jungle. (4 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, April 8 are a dance flick that marries hip-hop and classical ballet, a romantic comedy in which the lead character is a professional assassin and a dramedy in which Christopher Walken croons some tunes.

‘High Strung’

Nicholas Galitzine plays a violinist busking in the New York subway who encounters a classical dancer (Keenan Kampa) on scholarship at the Manhattan Conservatory of the Arts. With the help of a hip hop dance crew, they must find a common ground while preparing for a competition that could change their lives forever. (PG – 97 minutes)

If you are seeing “High Strung” for its dynamic dance numbers, then you are bound to be sufficiently satisfied and even energized. If you are seeing it for its sophisticated story and complex characters, then you have clearly overestimated the capacity and function of dance flicks. That is to say that although the new movie features some spectacular sequences of choreographed movement that marries hip-hop and classical ballet, it is underwhelming in most other areas due to its dependence on stereotypes and cliches. Having said that, the target audience of young aspiring dancers and musicians will likely leave the theater with a pep in their step and a smile on their face. (3 Stars)

‘Mr. Right’

Anna Kendrick plays a young woman who falls for a seemingly perfect guy (Sam Rockwell) who just happens to be a professional assassin whose services are solicited by a dubious client being sought by an equally dubious FBI agent (Tim Roth). As the bodies pile up, she needs to decide whether to flee or join in the mayhem. (R – 95 minutes)

“Mr. Right” excels on the charisma of its two stars. Having said that, Anna Kendrick and Sam Rockwell do not exactly “fit,” so to speak. But while real romantic sparks fail to fly, the comedy certainly hits the fan as it is always fun to watch both of these performers – individually – play up their charm for the camera. Anna Kendrick is as cute as she is kooky – even though her character is somewhat inconsistent – and Sam Rockwell is as likeable as he is indifferently insane. Moreover, the unique blend of its dark sense of humor and its undeniable adorableness is strangely entertaining. (3 Stars)

‘One More Time’

Amber Heard plays an aspiring rock star who, evicted from her Brooklyn apartment, is forced to move into the Hamptons home of her father (Christopher Walken) – an over-the-hill, Sinatra-esque crooner angling for a musical comeback. As the two butt heads, they unexpectedly find themselves on a journey that may redefine their lives. (NR – 98 minutes)

“One More Time” has a few pleasant songs – some that will appeal to those on the younger end of the age spectrum and some that will appeal to those on the older end of it. Unfortunately, said songs are the only moments in the movie that the word “pleasant” could be accurately used. That is because its characters – especially the ones portrayed by stars Amber Heard and Christopher Walken – are not the least be fun to be around. It is not that they are particularly unlikeable but rather that they come with an awful lot of emotional baggage and seem to be more interested in talking about it than doing anything about it making for one tedious tale. (1 Star)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, March 18 are a dramedy in which Clive Owen plays a down-on-his-luck father, a faith-based drama in which Jennifer Garner plays a resilient mother and a comedy in which Paul Reubens plays an adventure-seeking man-child.

‘The Confirmation’

Clive Owen plays a down-on-his luck carpenter tasked with entertaining his young son. But when his prized toolbox is stolen, a quiet father-and-son weekend turns into an adventure of a lifetime. Aided by an oddball drywall repairman (Patton Oswalt), the duo search for the thieves and find something they never imagined – a true family connection. (PG-13 – 90 minutes)

“The Confirmation” has more finely crafted characters than most movies made nowadays. That is to say that writer/director Bob Nelson, finding more facets of the father-and-son theme he also explored in “Nebraska,” gives each and every one of the characters in his new dramedy – even the seemingly not-so-nice ones – enough humanity to earn our empathy. As a result, his project instills within us the same hope that Clive Owen’s protagonist is seeking. Moreover, the story pulls on our heartstrings without ever resorting to sentimentality, instead relying on our understanding that everyone has reasons for their actions and it is only through kindness and compassion that any of us will succeed. (4 Stars)

‘Hello, My Name is Doris’

Sally Field plays a woman who, eager for all of the experiences she has missed out on, is inspired by a self-help seminar to romantically pursue her younger co-worker (Max Greenfield). Said pursuit brings her a thrilling perspective but also creates a rift between her and her longtime friends and family. (R – 95 minutes)

“Hello, My Name is Doris” is a better vehicle for its star Sally Field than it is a movie. Field perfectly nails her performance as a senior woman who essentially makes a fool of herself for a guy half her age, capturing both the comic and tragic qualities of the character. Moreover, it is impossible to avoid laughing out loud at her antics. However, the story’s conflicting tones become somewhat bothersome as the comedic lengths at which it often goes undermines its more serious aspects. Having said that, the target audience – folks Field’s age – will undoubtedly love it. (3 Stars)

‘Miracles from Heaven’

Jennifer Garner plays a mother who discovers her daughter has a rare, incurable disease and becomes a ferocious advocate for her healing as she searches for a solution. Queen Latifah and Eugenio Derbez also star. (PG – 100 minutes)

“Miracles from Heaven” is less interested in convincing its viewers that God and Heaven exist than it is in encouraging them to acknowledge the blessings that befall them each and every day. It just so happens that said blessings’ existence also affirms God and Heaven’s existence. The new faith-based drama will break your heart and then repair it in such a way that it will beat with more hope, optimism and gratitude than ever before. Even those who find faith to be a hard pill to swallow will be affected and uplifted by the story of a sick child and the mother who refuses to give up on her. (3 Stars)

‘Pee-wee’s Big Holiday’

Paul Reubens reprises his role as Pee-wee Herman who this time meets a mysterious stranger (Joe Manginello) that inspires him to take his first-ever vacation. (NR – 89 minutes)

“Pee-wee’s Big Holiday” is everything that fans of the franchise – resurrected from the 80’s – had hoped it would be. The new comedy is as bright as it dark, as sweet as it is creepy and as funny as it is touching. Those familiar with the character’s unique comic charm will enjoy the added benefit of nostalgia but you do not have to already know Pee-wee Herman to love the smile-inducing adventure on which he embarks. Laughing at his absurd antics is the surest way to feel like a kid again, demonstrating that creator and star Paul Reubens possesses a talent that is not only timeless but also one-of-a-kind. (4 Stars)

‘The Program’

Chris O’Dowd plays an Irish sports journalist who becomes convinced that Lance Armstrong’s performances during the Tour de France victories are fueled by banned substances. With this conviction, he starts hunting for evidence that will expose Armstrong (Ben Foster). (R – 103 minutes)

It is perhaps apropos that a movie about bicycling suffers from the defect of often racing forward faster than moviegoers can keep up. That is to say that, in order to cover the ground of the many years Lance Armstrong duped by doping, “The Program” jumps ahead through time leaving viewers feeling a bit fatigued. Having said that, the biographical drama is well worth the fast-pedaling as it effectively paints a very sobering picture of a smug and self-righteous man. Ben Foster is fantastic while director Stephen Frears extracts an excellent amount of emotional vexation, making for an adequately compelling motion picture. (3 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, March 11 are a dark comedy starring Robert Carlyle and an ensemble drama directed by Terrence Malick.

‘Barney Thomson’

Robert Carlyle plays a hapless barber whose mediocre, mundane life suddenly transforms when he inadvertently stumbles into serial murder. As he makes ham-fisted attempts to cover his tracks from a bearish detective (Ray Winstone), he turns to his domineering, emasculating mother (Emma Thompson) for help. (NR – 96 minutes)

The Glaswegian accents with which its actors speak are so thick that they can be cut with a knife but you do not have to understand every line of the movie’s dialogue to dig “Barney Thomson’s” dark sense of humor. The new dark comedy is eccentric enough that it becomes absorbing and, as a result, your mind fills in the gaps where the indecipherable words reside. Star Robert Carlyle, who also write and directed the film, perfectly portrays the title character’s panicked confusion in the midst of his mishaps while Emma Thompson is equal parts screwy and scary. (3 Stars)

‘Knight of Cups’

1111Christian Bale plays a screenwriter on an odyssey through the playgrounds of Los Angeles and Las Vegas as he undertakes a search for love and self. The ensemble cast includes Wes Bentley, Brian Dennehy, Imogen Poots, Cate Blanchett, Freida Pinto, Natalie Portman, Teresa Palmer Isabel Lucas and Antonio Banderas. (R – 118 minutes)

Moviegoers have seen “Knight of Cups” before, assuming they were able to keep their eyes open during writer/director Terrence Malick’s two previous efforts “The Tree of Life” and “To the Wonder.” The new ensemble drama is, much like those aforementioned films, the cinematic equivalent of a sleeping pill. The lack of any narrative inertia whatsoever renders the project completely innocuous. There is little-to-no story, leaving stars like Christian Bale and Imogen Poots stumbling around aimlessly while spouting supposedly poetic lines of dull dialogue. Malick may consider himself an artist but I have seen paintings with more life than this motion picture. (1 Star)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Feb. 26 are a psychological thriller starring Adrien Brody, a biographical sports dramedy starring Hugh Jackman and a drama starring AnnaSophia Robb.

‘Backtrack’

Adrien Brody plays a psychologist whose life is thrown into turmoil when he discovers that the patients he has been seeing are ghosts. Risking his own sanity, he delves into his past to uncover a terrifying secret which only he can put right. (R – 90 minutes)

“Backtrack” has got some decent ideas but, unfortunately, none of them are exclusively its own. The new psychological thriller is reminiscent of too many of its genre predecessors, emerging as more or less a variation on a well-worn theme. At first, the mystery at the center of the story is enough to keep viewers engaged – if only slightly. But when the answers start corporealizing, interest wanes as the other elements are unable to sustain in the enigma’s absence. Star Adrien Brody gives a strong performance despite the film’s flaws but that only demonstrates he deserves much better. (1 Star)

‘Eddie the Eagle’

Taron Egerton plays an unlikely but courageous British ski-jumper who, with the help of a rebellious and charismatic coach (Hugh Jackman), takes on the establishment and wins the hearts of sports fans around the world by making an improbable and historic showing at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. (PG-13 – 105 minutes)

“Eddie the Eagle” is the epitome of inspirational cinema. The new biographical sports dramedy is the best movie of the year so far and a strong contender for one of the best movies of 2016 period. The urge to stand up and cheer is overwhelming as is the tendency to draw comparisons to your own obstacles that will suddenly seem surmountable if only to prove people wrong. Actor Taron Egerton seamlessly disappears into the title character while director Dexter Fletcher brings ski-jumping to very vivid life on the big screen. Never before have I experienced such an explosion of emotions than while watching this gold medal worthy motion picture. (5 Stars)

‘Jack of the Red Hearts’

AnnaSophia Robb plays a streetwise teen and casualty of the flawed foster care system who cons her way into a job by posing as an experienced caregiver for a family with an autistic child and ends up connecting with her new life in a way she never expected. Just as she has found redemption, her deceitful past catches up with her and she is forced to come to terms with who she really is. (PG – 100 minutes)

“Jack of the Red Hearts” is a genuinely moving drama that works on as variety of levels. It will undoubtedly speak to parents of children with a disability of any kind, demonstrating the difficulties of such a situation with absolute honesty. However, it is also a much more universally touching tale as it addresses the power of human connection to transform us and assist us in our search for redemption. Star AnnaSophia Robb’s performance is authentic and affecting while the story itself – and its assorted facets – amps up the empathy aspect without resorting to syrupy sweetness. (3 Stars)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Feb. 19 are a western starring real-life father and son Donald Sutherland and Kiefer Sutherland and a horror anthology that takes place on a desolate stretch of desert highway.

‘Forsaken’

Kiefer Sutherland plays a man who must make amends with his estranged father (Donald Sutherland) in order to protect their home from relentless land-grabbers. (R – 90 minutes)

“Forsaken” embraces the classic western’s roots and embodies them in such a way that will very much please fans of the genre. Granted, it does not necessarily bring anything new to the table but that is precisely why it works so well. Director Jon Cassar has constructed a piece of cinema that is essentially a blast from the past – pleasantly old-fashioned in not only its narrative approach but also its atmosphere and characters. The plot’s pacing and development take a bit of a dip in the second act but the final showdown is sheer movie magic. (3 Stars)

‘Southbound’

Five interlocking tales of terror follow the fates of a group of weary travelers who confront their worst nightmares – and darkest secrets – over one long night on a desolate stretch of desert highway. (NR – 89 minutes)

“Southbound” is an eerie ride that is certain to stick with you long after you have left the movie theater. The new horror anthology features five fables, each equally unique and unnerving in their own way. The best of the bunch – a story about an accident – is worth the price of admission in and of itself, making for a psychologically unsettling and visually revolting experience. Each vignette is tied – some directly and others loosely – to the next thereby creating a creepy collection that requires a strong seat belt. This is indeed one deeply disturbing drive. (3 Stars)