Among the new movies that were released Friday, Sept. 18 are a comedic horror flick featuring feral children, a drama about a climbing expedition that is devastated by a severe snowstorm and a family dramedy set at a bible-themed girls’ camp.

‘Cooties’

Elijah Wood, Rainn Wilson and Alison Pill play misfit teachers who, when a cafeteria food virus turns elementary school children into killer zombies, must band together to escape the playground carnage. (R – 96 minutes)

“Cooties” is infectiously unhinged entertainment that, at the very least, may make you think twice about popping that next chicken nugget into your mouth. The new comedic horror flick is exorbitantly bonkers from the very beginning, possessing a playful yet pitiless plan of attack as its adult characters attempt to defend themselves against feral children. The story eventually finds itself as cornered as the characters, putting a cap on the quirky creativity in favor of a more conventional conclusion, but the demented moments that make up the movie’s first half are erratic enough to keep you rabidly entertained. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Everest’

A climbing expedition on Mt. Everest is devastated by a severe snowstorm. Stars include Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, John Hawkes, Robin Wright, Emily Watson, Keira Knightley, Sam Worthington and Jake Gyllenhaal. (PG-13 – 121 minutes)

“Everest” effectively transports moviegoers to the magnificent mountain for which it is titled, enveloping viewers in spectacular sights and sounds that will make the experience genuinely nerveracking. You climb with the characters, feeling their physical exhaustion before eventually being browbeaten by the severe snowstorm that devastates their expedition. The results are sincerely spellbinding. Having said that, its characters are not clearly defined – either on an aesthetic level or a deeper one – causing confusion in some spots and a takeaway that is more about the entertainment value than mountain-moving significance. Still, seeing this on the biggest screen possible is the next best thing to summiting. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Once I Was a Beehive’

Paris Warner plays a young girl who, spending summer at a bible-themed camp, is confronted with memories of camping with her family and tries to find peace with her new surroundings and deal with the death of her father. (PG – 119 minutes)

“Once I Was a Beehive” has an optimism that, before all is said and done, is easily instilled in moviegoers of all ages and faiths. The new family dramedy hails from a Mormon background but the movie is much more than that, promoting universal values – especially our ability to affect one another and help each other heal. As a result, the film is wonderfully unifying while also entertaining everyone with all of the quirks of camp. It gently but genuinely promotes its principles, leaving viewers feeling uplifted and hopeful, assured that the bonds we build and nurture will get us through absolutely anything. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Sleeping with Other People’

Jason Sudeikis plays a good-natured womanizer who forms a platonic relationship with a serial cheater (Alison Brie) that helps reform them in ways while a mutual attraction sets in. (NR – 95 minutes)

“Sleeping with Other People” features a few sexually charged conversations that are so uninhibited that they are certain to not only have you in stitches – because of both their brashness and their accuracy – but also remain in your memory long after the movie has ended. The comedy’s humorous moments are, therefore, quite magnificent. Unfortunately, its more sincere moments feel feigned as writer/director Leslye Headland struggles to balance two contending tones and is eventually unable to prevent her story from mimicking the rom-coms she had been mocking. Still, stars Jason Sudeikis and Alison Brie are undeniably talented and the vociferous laughs are well worth the price of admission. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Some Kind of Hate’*

Ronen Rubinstein plays a young man who, having his life turned into a nightmare by relentless bullying, is sent to a remote school for troubled teens only to be harassed all over again. Only this time, someone is watching – a girl (Sierra McCormick) who was driven to suicide by vicious bullying years ago. When he accidentally summons this girl from the grave, he unleashes a vengeful and unstoppable force on a mission of blood-soaked revenge. (NR – 82 minutes)

*Not reviewed.

Breakthrough Entertainment previews this fall’s new and returning television series with actress Tia Mowry (“Instant Mom”), actor Atticus Shaffer (“The Middle”) and actor Sean Maguire (“Once Upon a Time”). Pop artist Tyler Ward also talks about his Yellow Boxes Tour and The Motown Miracles discuss their upcoming show at Celebrity Theatre while “12 Rounds 3: Lockdown,” “90 Minutes in Heaven” and “Slow Learners” are among the films featured. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Reviews: “12 Rounds 3: Lockdown,” “90 Minutes in Heaven” and “Slow Learners”

Segment 2 – Fall TV Preview (Part 1)

Segment 3 – Fall TV Preview (Part 2)

Segment 4 – Interview: Actress Tia Mowry (“Instant Mom”)

Segment 5 – Interview: Actor Atticus Shaffer (“The Middle”)

Segment 6 – Interview: Pop Artist Tyler Ward (Yellow Boxes)

Segment 7 – Interview: Actor Sean Maguire (“Once Upon a Time”)

Segment 8 – Interview: The Motown Miracles (Part 1)

Segment 9 – Interview: The Motown Miracles (Part 2)

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, Sept. 11 are a sequel to an actioner produced by WWE Studios, a faith-based flick featuring a look at the afterlife and comedy about two people’s quest to go from quirky to cool overnight.

‘12 Rounds 3: Lockdown’

Dean Ambrose plays a detective who, returning to active duty after the death of his partner, uncovers evidence linking his fellow officers to a murder and is framed for a homicide he did not commit. Trapped in his own precinct, he will do whatever it takes to expose the dirty cops and clear his name. (R – 90 minutes)

When a sequel swaps out actors and/or characters, it is frustrating enough. When it swaps out the entire structure, then it can no longer be considered a sequel. “12 Rounds 3: Lockdown” has absolutely nothing in common with the 2009 thriller starring John Cena from which it derives its title. The “12 rounds” to which it refers are now ammunition as opposed to challenges thereby watering down an engrossingly innovative format to a boringly generic actioner. If there was any case for someone to sue a studio for misrepresentation, then this would most certainly be it. (Thumbs Down!)

‘90 Minutes in Heaven’

Hayden Christensen plays a man who is involved in a horrifying car crash and pronounced dead only to come back to life an hour and a half later, claiming to have seen Heaven. With the support and prayers of his beloved wife (Kate Bosworth), their three kids and friends near and far, he clings to his faith in God and fights to regain a semblance of his previous life. (PG-13 – 121 minutes)

Leaps and bounds more entertaining – and convincing – than last year’s annoyingly groundless and anticlimactic “Heaven is for Real,” the new faith-based drama “90 Minutes in Heaven” is beautifully moving and exceptionally encouraging. Even without the spiritual aspect, the story of a man’s struggle to come to terms with a such a deeply devastating experience is absolutely absorbing due to its depiction of resilience and love. But once we are granted a glimpse at said man’s 90 minutes in Heaven, we are overcome with hope and the movie climbs to a completely different level of significance. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Slow Learners’

Adam Pally and Sarah Burns play close friends and co-workers who, embarrassingly unlucky at love, hatch a plan to transform themselves over the course of a sex-and-alcohol-fueled summer. (NR – 96 minutes)

There are a handful of scenes in “Slow Learners” that will leave you in absolute stitches – especially one set during a book club meeting. The high level of laughs that the new comedy is able to achieve is a true testament to the talent of stars Adam Pally and Sarah Burns as well as their various supporting cast members. However, perhaps it is because the characters are relatable in their quest to go from quirky to cool overnight that the movie is so amusing. It is predictable in its eventual destination but the journey to get there is extremely enjoyable. (Thumbs Up!)

Coinciding with the release of “A Walk in the Woods,” Breakthrough Entertainment hikes the Appalachian Trail with Bob “Sir-Packs-Alot” Gabrielsen. Director Don Argott also previews his new comedy”Slow Learners” and writer/director Liz Manashil and actress Christine Weatherup provide an update about their former Phoenix Film Festival selection “Bread and Butter” while “Before We Go” and “Break Point” are among the other films featured. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Host Chat

Segment 2 – Review: “A Walk in the Woods”

Segment 3 – Soundbite Spotlight: Robert Redford, Nick Nolte and Ken Kwapis (“A Walk in the Woods”)

Segment 4 – Interview: Bob “Sir-Packs-Alot” Gabrielsen

Segment 5 – Interview: Director Don Argott (“Slow Learners”)

Segment 6 – Reviews: “Before We Go” and “Break Point”

Segment 7 – Review Rewind: “Straight Outta Compton”

Segment 8 – Interview: Writer/Director Liz Manashil and Actress Christine Weatherup (“Bread and Butter”)

Segment 9 – Closing/Picks of the Week

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, Sept. 4 are a romantic drama starring and directed by Chris Evans, a sports comedy starring Jeremy Sisto and David Walton and an Appalachian Trail-set dramedy starring Robert Redford and Nick Nolte.

‘Before We Go’

Chris Evans and Alice Eve play strangers stuck in New York City for the night. Starting as convenient acquaintances, the two soon grow into each other’s most trusted confidants when a night of unexpected adventure forces them to confront their fears and take control of their lives. (PG-13 – 89 minutes)

Before you go see Chris Evans’ directorial debut “Before We Go,” you may wish to drink a few cups of coffee. That is because the new romantic drama, a pale reflection of Richard Linklater’s “Before Sunrise” series of films, is an absolute bore from beginning to end. Even though Evans and his co-star Alice Eve are charismatic actors, their characters could not be less captivating. More importantly, their dialogue – which is pretty much all that exists in this loquacious exercise – could not be less interesting, leaving viewers sighing, yawning and checking their watches the entire time. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Break Point’

Jeremy Sisto plays a reckless man-child on the last leg of his career as a doubles tennis player who decides to make one last-ditch effort to revive his career, convincing his childhood partner – his estranged brother (David Walton), now an apathetic substitute teacher – to team up with him. The mismatched pair, with the help of a 11-year-old boy (Joshua Rush), make an unlikely run at a grand slam tournament and are forced to re-discover their game and their brotherhood. (R – 90 minutes)

The one and only appeal of “Break Point” is the fact that charismatic star David Walton is, in an indirect way, reprising the role he played on NBC’s brilliant-but-canceled comedy series “About a Boy.” That undesigned connection may be enough to keep audiences interested for at least a little while. But, before long, the new sports comedy’s paint-by-numbers approach becomes a bit too overwhelming with its predictability leaving viewers feeling impassive at best. Jeremy Sisto’s character is extremely annoying, making it somewhat impossible to root for him to succeed, while laughs are almost nonexistent. (Thumbs Down!)

‘A Walk in the Woods’

Robert Redford challenges himself to hike the Appalachian Trail with the only person he can find willing to join him on the trek – his long lost and former friend (Nick Nolte) who is now a down-on-his-luck serial philanderer who sees the trip as a way to sneak out of paying some debts and sneak in one last adventure before it is too late. (R – 98 minutes)

So long as you view “A Walk in the Woods” as a casual affair during which you can spend some time with a couple of amiable actors playing characters who are pleasant enough then you will likely enjoy the experience. However, if you are looking for any significant substance, insight or emotion then you will undoubtedly be at least a bit disappointed in the new dramedy. That is to say that there are not exactly any particularly poignant moments in the movie but there are plenty of amusing ones as dynamic stars Robert Redford and Nick Nolte stroll through breathtaking vistas. (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Aug. 28 are a thriller set in Southeast Asia, an 80’s themed sci-fi actioner and a political drama that delves into some dark places.

‘Digging for Fire’

Jake Johnson and Rosemarie DeWitt play a married couple whose chance to stay at a fancy home in the Hollywood Hills is complicated by a discovery of a bone and a rusty old gun in the yard. A disagreement about it sends them on separate and unexpected adventures over the course of one weekend. (R – 85 minutes)

Writer/director Joe Swanberg keeps making the same movie. And, unfortunately, it is not a very good one. Whether it goes by the title “Drinking Buddies,” “Happy Christmas” or – most recently – “Digging for Fire,” the story always revolves around a group of not-particularly-likeable people talking incessantly about not-particularly-meaningful things. The initial setup is at least more intriguing this time around but it is quickly placed on the backburner in favor of tedious rambling. And when the plot’s promise finally materializes, it is buried back up again as though it never even mattered to begin with. (Thumbs Down!)

‘No Escape’

Owen Wilson plays an American businessman who settles into his new home in Southeast Asia with his wife (Lake Bell) and two daughters. Suddenly finding themselves in the middle of a violent political uprising, they must frantically look for a safe escape as rebels mercilessly attack the city. Pierce Brosnan also stars. (R – 101 minutes)

“No Escape” is incredibly intense, terrifying viewers into canceling any plans they may have had to travel abroad. After all, there is enough chaos to deal with right here at home without having to worry about deciphering a different language or comprehending another culture in the midst of cataclysmic circumstances. The new thriller is a relentless, edge-of-your-seat ride through some of the most unbearable suspense imaginable, leaving your nerves frayed beyond repair. Granted, there are some moments that are a bit unbelievable but the excitement offsets that and makes this one of the most electrifying movies of the year. (Breakthrough!)

‘Turbo Kid’

Munro Chambers plays an orphaned teenager who, in a post apocalyptic 1997, goes on an adventure to save his female-robot companion (Laurence Leboeuf) from the hands of an evil warlord (Michael Ironside) who controls the only water supply. (NR – 90 minutes)

“Turbo Kid” looks – and feels – as though it could be a digitally-restored version of an 80’s sci-fi actioner that had been locked up in some time capsule somewhere. That is perhaps the greatest compliment the new movie could receive as it aims to authentically mimic – or perhaps more accurately resurrect – the flicks from 35 years ago. As a result, audiences of a certain age will experience a gleeful nostalgia as they enjoy a blast from their past albeit with a bit more gore. Star Munro Chambers is excellent as an unlikely-yet-eager hero while Laurence Leboeuf is as beautiful as she is bubbly and the production itself is amusingly retro. (Thumbs Up!)

‘War Room’

Priscilla Evans Shirer plays a woman who is challenged by another woman (Karen Abercrombie) to establish a battle plan of prayer for her family, whose world is crumbling under the strain of a failing marriage. As she tries to fight for her family, her husband’s (T.C. Stallings) hidden struggles come to light and he must decide if he will make amends to his family and prove the woman’s wisdom that victories don’t come by accident. (PG – 120 minutes)

It is understandable that filmmakers Alex and Stephen Kendrick aim to make movies that are targeted at a specific audience – namely devout Christians. But there is some benefit in being a little less heavy-handed and making a movie whose message is wider-reaching. “War Room” is the first of their films, following “Fireproof” and “Courageous,” that said concept is completely discarded in favor of an annoyingly narrow approach. Although the marital melodrama is occasionally compelling, the incessant and forcible pulpit-pounding alienates general audiences, appealing purely to people whose entire worldview is locked up in a prayer closet. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Z for Zachariah’

Margot Robbie plays a young woman who, in the wake of a nuclear war, survives on her own, fearing she may actually be the proverbial last woman on earth until she discovers the most astonishing sight of her life – another human being (Chiwetel Ejiofor). A fragile, imperative strand of trust connects them. But when a stranger (Chris Pine) enters the valley, their precarious bond begins to unravel. (PG-13 – 95 minutes)

“Z for Zachariah” would have been more accurately titled “Z for Prosaic” – which makes precisely as much sense as the movie itself. The new post-apocalyptic drama moves at a snail’s pace, which is not particularly a bad thing so long as there is at least some suspense or tension to fill the pregnant pauses. Unfortunately, the new flick has about as much suspense and tension in it as the love triangle it portrays has passion – which is none at all. The fact that it was directed by Craig Zobel, the filmmaker behind 2012’s super-stimulating “Compliance,” is truly devastating. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Zipper’

Patrick Wilson plays a family man who has it all until he risks losing everything due to his inability to fight off his obsessive temptation for other women. Lena Headey, John Cho, Dianna Agron, Ray Winstone and Richard Dreyfuss also star. (R – 103 minutes)

You know that “Zipper” succeeds in its efforts because of your reaction to its final few moments. You are guaranteed to be a bit emotionally distraught, demonstrating that writer/director Mora Stephens has drawn you into the drama. However, perhaps more importantly, it also shows how well she has humanized a character whose actions are disappointing – to say the least – and merely a reflection of many real-life politicians and other individuals who we hold to a higher standard. The cast’s performances are incredible, especially that of star Patrick Wilson, delving into some dark places to shine new light on a surprisingly complex situation. (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Aug. 21 are a romantic drama set in Costa Rica, a screwball comedy revolving around the relationships of the cast and crew of a Broadway play and a romantic dramedy starring in which Pierce Brosnan plays the man in the middle of a love triangle.

‘After Words’

Marcia Gay Harden plays a librarian who attempts to escape her midlife crisis by traveling to Costa Rica. There she meets a younger man (Oscar Jaenada) who takes her on an unexpected journey filled with adventure and romance. (NR – 91 minutes)

“After Words” is a beautiful movie – in more ways than one. First, and probably most obvious, is its Costa Rica setting that is captured so amorously by cinematographer Salvador Lleo De La Fe that it is the next best thing to actually be there. However, more importantly, is director Juan Feldman and screenwriter Joel Silverman’s story that demonstrates how truly taking advantage of all that this life has to offer is the best way to defeat depression. Star Marcia Gay Harden is excellent as a woman who experiences a transformation – both inside and out – as a result of said advise (with, of course, a little help from the aesthetics of Costa Rica). (Thumbs Up!)

‘She’s Funny That Way’

Owen Wilson plays a Broadway director who casts a call girl (Imogen Poots) in a new play to star alongside his wife (Kathryn Hahn) and her ex-lover (Rhys Ifans). Meanwhile, the call girl’s therapist (Jennifer Aniston) is consumed with her own failing relationship with the director’s playwright (Will Forte), who is also developing a crush on the call girl. (R – 93 minutes)

“She’s Funny That Way” is a delightfully charming throwback, authentically resembling the simple-yet-twisted screwball comedies of yesteryear that seem to be all but extinct. Boasting an all-star cast that includes Imogen Poots and Owen Wilson and a quick-witted screenplay by legendary writer/director Peter Bogdanovich, the new flick feels like it has been plucked right out of the golden age of Hollywood. It is bouncy, boisterous and – best of all – squirrels to the nuts from beginning to end, running on the crazy coincidences that create chaos in its amusingly neurotic characters’ lives. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Some Kind of Beautiful’

Pierce Brosnan plays a womanizing college professor who meets his match when he gets involved with cute student (Jessica Alba) and her older sister (Salma Hayek). (R – 100 minutes)

“Some Kind of Beautiful” is more like some kind of mess. Although its three stars are as charismatic as ever, its story is all over the place. The new romantic dramedy seems to be unsure of what it wants to say about relationships, jumping to a different tone and theme every other scene or so. Laughs are nonexistent and its attempts to affect audiences come across as anything but authentic. Inconsistencies in all areas are its ultimate downfall with its characters, who are indifferent one moment and outraged the next, bearing the absolute worst of it. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Ten Thousand Saints’

Asa Butterfield plays a boy who, while struggling with his relationship with his father (Ethan Hawke), befriends a girl (Hailee Steinfeld) who is pregnant with the child of his friend that died of a drug overdose. (R – 113 minutes)

The punk rock songs that populate the soundtrack for “Ten Thousand Saints” is exasperatingly annoying but that is more a matter of musical taste than anything. Still, it is worth noting since it has the power to inhibit a viewer’s ability to willingly forgive the film’s flaws in the midst of so much goodwill. Although the new drama features an exceedingly talented cast and themes that attempt to tug at your heart, it is far too unfocused to ever accomplish its goals or make anyone feel anything authentic. The movie is similar to a mixtape that is given to you by someone with Attention Deficit Disorder. (Thumbs Down!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Aug. 14 are a thriller in which Kevin Bacon plays a corrupt cop, a dramedy in which Jermaine Clement plays a newly single father and a thriller in which Rosamund Pike plays the victim of a brutal assault.

‘Cop Car’

James Freedson-Jackson and Hays Wellford play good-natured but rebellious young boys who stumble across an abandoned cop car hidden in a secluded glade and decide to take it for a quick joyride. Their bad decision unleashes the ire of the county sheriff (Kevin Bacon) and leads to brutal consequences. (R – 86 minutes)

“Cop Car” is overflowing with agonizing suspense and uninhibited thrills. It perhaps pushes viewers’ buttons with greater efficacy than any other movie released this year. Writer/director Jon Watts skillfully stimulates our senses with a thriller that feels as though it was mined from the 1970’s, employing a minimalist approach and balancing stealthy anxiety with blatant excitement. Star Kevin Bacon delivers one of the best performances of his career as a conspicuously corrupt cop. The flick may come to a close too quickly with a climax that could have been a bit more creative but instant gratification cinema does not get much better than this. (Thumbs Up!)

‘People Places Things’

Jemaine Clement plays a newly single graphic novelist who balances parenting his young twin daughters and a classroom full of students while exploring and navigating the rich complexities of new love and letting go of the woman who left him. (R – 85 minutes)

“People Places Things” is not about big moments; nor does it contain any life-changing revelations. Instead, the new dramedy remains relatively low-impact in terms of both its conflicts and its resolutions. That approach may make it seem somewhat slight in significance but its heart is clearly enormous, as is evident by the warmth that emanates from it and the catharsis for which is it responsible. Star Jemaine Clement delivers a performance that is equal parts humorous and sincere, creating a charismatic character with which we easily identify, complemented by a story that stimulates serious thought about our own past relationships. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Return to Sender’

Rosamund Pike plays a woman whose perfect world is shattered by a brutal assault when she agrees to a blind date and the wrong man comes to her door. Desperate for closure, she reaches out to her convicted attacker (Shiloh Fernandez) and slowly builds a relationship with him. But when he is paroled and comes looking for her, she seizes the opportunity to exact revenge. (NR – 105 minutes)

In spite of its far-fetched setup, “Return to Sender” manages to capture viewers’ interest and keep it. Perhaps compellingly charismatic star Rosamund Pike is responsible for this or maybe it is just sheer curiosity that deserves the credit since the story is a bit bizarre. But if the latter is the case, then it is a double-edged sword as the new thriller’s bizarre qualities quickly become ludicrous qualities with its characters’ actions rendering them either unconvincing or unhinged. The film even fails as exploitation due to the brevity and ambiguity of its brutality, which is especially disappointing due to the promising suspense that precedes it. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Entertainment celebrates the releases of “Ricki and the Flash” and “Shaun the Sheep.” Guests include sheep farmer Cheryl Griset, author Lisa Jakub and Meryl Streep fan and former sheep farmer Dorris Markovic. Eric and Kathleen also cook up a scrumptious shepherd’s pie without breaking the bank with the debut of Budget Bistro while other films featured include “Boulevard,” “Dark Places,” “The Gift” and “The Runner.” (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Reviews: “Ricki and the Flash” and “Shaun the Sheep”

Segment 2 – Soundbite Spotlight: Meryl Streep, Mamie Gummer, Rick Springfield and Jonathan Demme (“Ricki and the Flash”)

Segment 3 – Interview: Sheep Farmer Cheryl Griset (Schafwolle Ranch)

Segment 4 – Listener Call: Bobbi/Dave’s Political Musings

Segment 5 – Reviews: “The Runner” and “Boulevard”

Segment 6 – Interview: Author Lisa Jakub (“You Look Like That Girl: A Child Actor Stops Pretending and Finally Grows Up”)

Segment 7 – Interview: Meryl Streep Fan and Former Sheep Farmer Dorris Markovic

Segment 8 – Budget Bistro: Shepherd’s Pie

Segment 9 – Reviews: “Dark Places” and “The Gift”/Picks of the Week

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, Aug. 7 are a psychological thriller starring Jason Bateman and Joel Edgerton, a drama in which Meryl Streep plays a guitar heroine and a dialogue-less animated adventure about a flock of sheep.

‘Boulevard’

Robin Williams plays a devoted husband in a marriage of convenience who is forced to confront his secret life. (R – 88 minutes)

It is difficult to determine whether or not it is a good thing that “Boulevard,” which features Robin Williams’ final dramatic performance, has been released rather than swept under the rug. On the one hand, Williams gives a brilliant performance that truly illustrates what a tremendous talent we have lost with his passing. On the other hand, the movie is quite bad – slow, boring and seemingly incomplete. To make matters worse, its subject matter is somewhat disconcerting, especially given the fact that the heartache we see on the screen may not be all acting. All things considered, this movie – tragically – may be best left unseen. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Dark Places’

Charlize Theron plays a woman who, 25 years after testifying against her brother as the person responsible for massacring her entire family, is approached by a secret society that specializes in complex, unsolved cases. Nicholas Hoult, Corey Stoll, Christina Hendricks, Tye Sheridan and Chloe Moretz also star. (R – 114 minutes)

“Dark Places” is a twisty, noir-like mystery that keeps audiences guessing through to the very end. Star Charlize Theron expertly embodies a tortured woman desperate to finally put the past – and especially the painful emotions that surround it – behind her. The actress’s performance is compelling, drawing viewers even closer to the meticulously unraveling mystery. Even its frequently time-jumping chronology does not detract from one’s engrossment and instead increases engagement. It is somewhat slow but never the least bit boring as the puzzle pieces calculatingly fall into place. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Gift’

Jason Bateman plays a married man whose chance encounter with his former high school classmate (Joel Edgerton) sends his world into a harrowing tailspin. After a series of uninvited encounters and mysterious gifts prove troubling, a horrifying secret from the past is uncovered after more than 20 years. (R – 108 minutes)

“The Gift” will keep you on the edge of your seat, raise up the hairs on the back of your neck and incite an awful lot of reflective thought that will then lead to some truly intelligent post-viewing discussion. The new psychological thriller therefore stands out in the crowd for its multifaceted entertainment value. First-time writer/director Joel Edgerton electrifies with his Hitchcockian-like abilities behind the camera but it is his chilling performance in front of it that leaves the most lasting impression; although it may be argued that his co-star Jason Bateman’s non-comedic turn is equally extraordinary. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Ricki and the Flash’

Meryl Streep plays a guitar heroine who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom but is now returning home to make things right with her family. Mamie Gummer, Rick Springfield and Kevin Kline also star. (PG-13 – 102 minutes)

It is hard to imagine that “Ricki and the Flash” would have ever been greenlit if star Meryl Streep were not already on board. Granted, she is as magnetic as usual, giving a performance that demonstrates her remarkable versatility. Her singing here is somewhat less impressive than it has been in “Mama Mia,” “A Prairie Home Companion” and “Into the Woods,” but her acting abilities are incomparably incredible. The story, however, is insufficient, serving as little more than an unstable excuse for Streep to parade around as a guitar heroine. So long as that shortcoming is understood and forgiven, the experience is adequately enjoyable. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Runner’

Nicolas Cage plays an idealistic but imperfect New Orleans politician who, in the aftermath of the BP oil spill, finds his plans of restoration unraveling as his own life becomes contaminated with corruption, scandal and deceit. (R – 94 minutes)

“The Runner” should probably have undergone a title change to “The Walker.” Or maybe even “The Exasperatingly Unhurried Trudger” if it were aiming for the greatest accuracy. After all, the new political drama’s pace is beyond slothful, asking audiences to follow star Nicolas Cage’s character’s desperate albeit well-intentioned attempt to climb out of a pit that he had dug himself. His story is occasionally intriguing if not mostly frustrating but the narrative lacks life; the movie offers melodrama without the emotion. Moreover, Cage stumbles over an accent that is meant to reflect the film’s New Orleans setting but comes across as a speech impediment. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Shaun the Sheep’

When a sheep named Shaun decides to take the day off and have some fun, he gets a little more action than he bargained for. A mix up with the farmer, a caravan and a very steep hill lead he and his flock to the Big City and it is up to Shaun to return everyone safely to the green grass of home. (PG – 85 minutes)

“Shaun the Sheep” is extraordinarily simple, featuring a straight-forward story and absolutely no dialogue whatsoever. That approach may be a bit counterintuitive in an age when animated adventures are predominantly populated with clever quips and elaborate narratives. However, without having to worry about such superficial aspects, writers/directors Mark Burton and Richard Starzak’s resources are freed up so they can instead focus on delivering incomparable creativity – which they undoubtedly do. The end-result is a charming, heart-warming, exciting and hilarious movie that will delight audiences of all ages as the best animated adventure of the year. (Breakthrough!)

Coinciding with the release of “Vacation,” Arizona Office of Tourism spokeswoman Marjorie Magnusson discusses what destinations the Griswolds might want to visit if they were to take a road trip through Arizona on their way to Wally World while actress Marisol Nichols looks back upon her role as Audrey Griswold in “Vegas Vacation” and actor Michael H. Cole speaks about his scenes alongside Chevy Chase in the new sequel. Filmmaker David Thorpe also previews his new documentary “Do I Sound Gay?” and gymnast Ariana Berlin provides a sneak peek of “Full Out,” the new movie inspired by her life story. Other films featured include “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation,” “The Stanford Prison Experiment” and “The Young and Prodigious T.S. Spivet.” (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Graffiti Bar Crawl Recap

Segment 2 – Review: “Vacation”

Segment 3 – Soundbite Spotlight: Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo, etc. (“Vacation”)

Segment 4 – Interview: Marjorie Magnusson (Arizona Office of Tourism)

Segment 5 – Interview: Filmmaker David Thorpe (“Do I Sound Gay?”)

Segment 6 – Interview: Gymnast Ariana Berlin (“Full Out”)

Segment 7 – Interview: Actress Marisol Nichols (“Vegas Vacation”)

Segment 8 – Interview: Actor Michael H. Cole (“Vacation”)

Segment 9 – Closing/Reviews: “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation,” “The Stanford Prison Experiment” and “The Young and Prodigious T.S. Spivet”

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, July 24 are an action-packed comedy that brings video games to life and a dramedy about two women who bond over their unexpected pregnancies.

‘Pixels’

Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Josh Gad and Peter Dinklage play former arcaders who must save the world from intergalactic aliens that have discovered video feeds of classic video games and misinterpreted them as a declaration of war. Michelle Monaghan also stars. (PG-13 – 106 minutes)

At times, “Pixels” plays out like just another Adam Sandler and/or Kevin James movie – which, as anyone who has seen “Grown Ups” or “Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” can tell you, is definitely not a good thing. Its characters are incredibly annoying – especially the ones played by Josh Gad and Peter Dinklage – its humor is dim-witted and its story elements are absurd. But then the new action-packed comedy’s enjoyable nostalgia begins to change the color of the glasses of viewers who were around in the 80’s while its diverting creativity converts everyone else with the Pac-Man chase alone being well-worth the price of admission. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Unexpected’

Cobie Smulders play an inner-city high school teacher who discovers she is pregnant at the same time as one of her most promising students (Gail Bean) and the two develop an unlikely friendship while struggling to navigate their unexpected pregnancies. (R – 90 minutes)

“Unexpected” may sound like it is a movie that is exclusively for female viewers but writer/director Kris Swanberg successfully extends the new dramedy’s themes of accepting life’s unexpected occurrences and appreciating mutually supportive relationships to a universal level from which audiences of all ages and sexes will derive significance. Star Cobie Smulders sparkles in a role that is quite different from those with which she is typically associated. The narrative ends a bit too abruptly though, thereby leaving the third act feeling incomplete. Still, the story’s sincerity and sunny implications shine through for an enjoyable and meaningful experience. (Thumbs Up!)

Coinciding with the release of “Pixels,” Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with real-life Arcader Billy Mitchell. In addition, director Kyle Patrick Alvarez previews his new dramatic thriller “The Stanford Prison Experiment” and University of Advancing Technology Professors Ben Reichert and Lynn Understiller peel back the curtain on video game programming and design. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Listener Call-In: Bobby (Graffiti Bar Crawl)

Segment 2 – Review: “Pixels”

Segment 3 – Soundbite Spotlight: Adam Sandler, Peter Dinklage, Kevin James,  Michelle Monaghan, Josh Gad and Chris Columbus (“Pixels”)

Segment 4 – Interview: Arcader Billy Mitchell

Segment 5 – Interview: Director Kyle Patrick Alvarez (“The Stanford Prison Experiment”)

Segment 6 – Review: “Unexpected”

Segment 7 – Summer Movie Catch-Up: “Mad Max: Fury Road,” “Poltergeist” and “Spy”

Segment 8 – Interview: Professors Ben Reichert and Lynn Understiller (University of Advancing Technology)

Segment 9 – Closing/Listener Call-In: Dorris (Prison Experiments and Graffiti)

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, July 17 are a action-packed heist comedy about a man who can shrink down to the size of an ant, a dramatic thriller in which Viola Davis and Jennifer Lopez play grieving mothers who take matters into their own hands and a drama that showcases the lighthouses along the California coast.

‘Ant-Man’

Paul Rudd plays a master thief who, armed with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, must embrace his inner-hero and help his mentor (Michael Douglas) protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats. (PG-13 – 115 minutes)

“Ant-Man” drastically differs from Marvel’s other movies. And said differences are precisely what makes it one of the studio’s finest films. First and foremost, it is not so much a superhero flick as it is an action-packed heist comedy – with a particular emphasis on “comedy.” Moreover, star Paul Rudd’s character – a flawed man and reluctant hero – is significantly more relatable than, say, Chris Hemsworth’s Asgardian God. Finally, and perhaps most notably, the stakes are smaller and less apocalyptic, keeping the doom and gloom to a bare minimum so that we can fully appreciate the fantastic fun. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Joe Dirt 2: Beautiful Loser’

David Spade reprises his role as a mullet-wearing, rock and roll loving, down on his luck white-trash-hero who embarks on an epic journey through the recent past, the heartland of America and his own mind to get back to his loved ones. (NR – 106 minutes)

“Joe Dirt 2: Beautiful Loser” gets points for trying – in terms of both its enticing distribution strategy and its heartfelt moral – but it lacks the creativity necessary to justify its existence. The sequel to the 2001 comedy borrows inspiration from plenty of other motion pictures – most notably “Forrest Gump,” “The Wizard of Oz” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” – but it fails to initiate any inspiration of its own. Granted, there are a few funny moments and the entire ordeal is diverting enough to warrant a nonchalant watch but that is fairly faint praise for an otherwise unremarkable movie. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Lila and Eve’

Viola Davis plays a grief-stricken mother who, in the aftermath of her son’s murder in a drive-by shooting, attends a support group where she meets another mother (Jennifer Lopez) who urges her to take matters into her own hands and track down her son’s killers. (R – 94 minutes)

“Lila and Eve” is an exceptionally engaging dramatic thriller – one that eventually sweeps the rug right up from under you. Stars Viola Davis and Jennifer Lopez give robust performances that lend themselves to the movie’s emotionally captivating nature. Granted, it will likely lose the admiration of viewers who are unable to suspend disbelief but its preposterous plot points are merely used for dramatic effect, increasing the audience’s enthusiasm over these two characters’ commendable mission. The fact that its final act is able to simultaneously shock and stimulate – both our minds and our hearts – is its greatest achievement, though. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Safelight’

Evan Peters and Juno Temple play teenagers who discover a renewed sense of possibility as they go on a road trip to photograph lighthouses along the California coast. (R – 84 minutes)

“Safelight” plays it… well… too safe. Nothing in the new drama is even remotely surprising and, as a result, one cannot help but be bored while watching it. Granted, it is beautifully shot and takes viewers on a tour of lighthouses along the California coast that is exceptionally pleasing to the eyes. However, the story itself leaves a lot to be desired as it travels along a particularly predictable path. Even the casting is risk-free thereby producing neutered performances from Evan Peters and Juno Temple – who, by the way, do not have any chemistry which does not bode well for the movie’s romantic aspirations. (Thumbs Down!)

Coinciding with the release of “Ant-Man,” Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with California Academy of Sciences Entomologist Dr. Brian Fisher. In addition, writer/director Kris Swanberg previews her new dramedy “Unexpected” and actress Sarah Dugdale discusses her roles in “Sugarbabies,” “Sorority Murder” and “Stolen Daughter.” The hosts also complete a couple of sensitivity training exercises while “Joe Dirt 2: Beautiful Loser,” “Lila & Eve” and “Safelight” are among the other films featured. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Host Chat

Segment 2 – Review: “Ant-Man”

Segment 3 – Soundbite Spotlight: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll, Peyton Reed and Kevin Feige (“Ant-Man”)

Segment 4 – Interview: Entomologist Dr. Brian Fisher (California Academy of Sciences)

Segment 5 – Interview: Director Kris Swanberg (“Unexpected”)

Segment 6 – Listener Call-In: Bobby (Graffiti Bar Crawl)

Segment 7 – Interview: Actress Sarah Dugdale (“Sugarbabies,” “Sorority Murder” and “Stolen Daughter”)

Segment 8 – Sensitivity Training Exercises

Segment 9 – Closing/Reviews: “Joe Dirt 2: Beautiful Loser,” “Lila & Eve” and “Safelight”

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Breakthrough Entertainment celebrates Christmas in July with actress Jill Morrison (“Family for Christmas”), actor Matthew Kevin Anderson (“Impastor”) and Santa Claus! Featured films include “Minions,” “Strangerland” and “Stung.” (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening

Segment 2 – Review: “Minions”

Segment 3 – Soundbite Spotlight: Sandra Bullock, Jon Hamm, Allison Janney and Pierre Coffin (“Minions”)

Segment 4 – Interview: Santa Claus

Segment 5 – Interview: Actress Jill Morrison (“Family for Christmas”)

Segment 6 – Reviews: “Strangerland” and “Stung”

Segment 7 – Interview: Actor Matthew Kevin Anderson (“Impastor”)

Segment 8 – Guest Review: Civil Rights Attorney Dorris Markovic (“Magic Mike XXL”)

Segment 9 – Closing

Bonus Segment: Civil Rights Attorney Dorris Markovic on Breakthrough Sports

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, July 10 are a spinoff/prequel to “Despicable Me,” a drama set during a dust storm and a creature feature about a bunch of giant killer wasps.

‘Minions’

Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by supervillain Scarlet Overkill (Sandra Bullock) who, alongside her inventor husband Herb (Jon Hamm), hatches a plot to take over the world. (PG – 91 minutes)

“Minions” is all superficial laughs and no underlying substance. But there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, as anyone who has ever been entertained by a “Roadrunner and Wile. E. Coyote” or “Tom and Jerry” cartoon will tell you. Granted, there is a world of difference between the new spinoff/prequel to Illumination’s “Despicable Me” and Pixar’s “Inside Out” but there is undoubtedly a case for both animated adventures’ existence. What it lacks in significance it more than makes up for in silliness thereby producing a delightfully diverting hour and a half for audiences of all ages. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Strangerland’

Nicole Kidman and Joseph Fiennes play parents who are thrown into crisis when they discover that their son and daughter have mysteriously disappeared just before a massive dust storm hits their remote Australian desert town. Hugo Weaving also stars. (R – 112 minutes)

Much like the two kids in it, “Strangerland’s” narrative disappears in a massive dust storm – or at least gets a little lost and fails to ever find its way back on track. It is exceptionally easy to fall asleep while watching the new drama as it sort of stumbles around, unsure of precisely what it wants to be or what it wishes to say. Instead of focusing on the mystery surrounding where those two aforementioned kids have disappeared to, it fixates on the parents’ suffering. Ambiguous anguish is neither entertaining nor satisfying and is instead simply frustrating. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Stung’

Matt O’Leary and Jessica Cook play catering staffers at a fancy garden party where a mishap with toxic plant fertilizer leads to the most unwelcome of dinner guests – giant killer wasps. Clifton Collins Jr. and Lance Henriksen also star. (NR – 90 minutes)

“Stung” is stuck in between serious sci-fi and comedic horror. It is not tongue-in-cheek enough to be “Zombeavers” yet it is not sincere enough to be “Backcountry.” As such, it is neither scary enough nor silly enough to warrant a watch, instead posing as nothing more than an impressive effects reel with a combination of computer-generated and practical elements that efficiently facilitate suspension of disbelief. Moreover, its characters are not likeable enough nor unique enough to earn our empathy or support. There is a certain promise of fun that comes with seeing a film that features giant killer wasps. Unfortunately, that promise is broken here – and that stings. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Entertainment celebrates Independence Day with retired special warfare operator Jimmy Hatch (Spike’s K9 Fund), war correspondent Robert L. Cunningham (“Afghanistan: On the Bounce”), pyrotechnician Steve Barnes (Fireworks Productions of Arizona) and Civil Rights Attorney Dorris Markovic. Featured films include “Faith of Our Fathers,” “Magic Mike XXL,” “The Overnight” and “Terminator Genisys.” (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Review: “Faith of Our Fathers”

Segment 2 – Interview: Retired Special Warfare Operator Jimmy Hatch (Spike’s K9 Fund)

Segment 3 – Review: Terminator Genisys

Segment 4 – Review: “The Overnight”

Segment 5 – Interview: War Correspondent Robert L. Cunningham (“Afghanistan: On the Bounce”)

Segment 6 – Review: “Magic Mike XXL”

Segment 7 – Public Apology to Civil Rights Attorney Dorris Markovic

Segment 8 – Interview: Pyrotechnician Steve Barnes (Fireworks Productions of Arizona)

Segment 9 – Closing/Preview of Breakthrough Entertainment’s Patriotic Clip Show

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Wednesday, July 1 are a faith-based patriotic drama about two strangers’ journey to the Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Washington D.C.; a sequel about a group of gyrating male entertainers’ journey to a stripper convention in Myrtle Beach; and a sci-fi actioner about a man, a woman and their T-800’s journey to the 80’s.

‘Faith of Our Fathers’

David A.R. White and Kevin Downes play strangers who, guided by letters handwritten from their fathers from the Vietnam War battlefield, embark on a journey to the Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Washington, D.C. Along the way, they discover that the devastation of war cannot break the love of a father for his son. (PG-13 – 100 minutes)

“Faith of Our Fathers” is a movie that uniquely tackles topics from both a faith-based approach and a patriotic perspective. The new drama deals with a variety of subjects such as father-son relationships, honoring our Veterans, appreciating our freedoms, respecting one anothers’ ways of thinking, remaining loyal to our friends and to ourselves and trusting that everything happens for a reason. At times its pontificating becomes a bit too potent but fortunately the unraveling narrative and the uncommon dynamic between David A.R. White’s and Kevin Downe’s characters keep it grounded and engaging. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Magic Mike XXL’

Channing Tatum reprises his role of a stripper who, on the road with his friends for their final show in Myrtle Beach with whistle stops in Jacksonville and Savannah to renew old acquaintances and make new friends, learns some new moves and shakes off the past in surprising ways. (R – 115 minutes)

Forget superheroes, natural disasters and dinosaurs; There is absolutely no doubt that “Magic Mike XXL” will provide female moviegoers with the greatest thrill they have in a theater this summer. The new sequel delivers precisely what women have been hoping it would – good-looking, hairless, muscular men gyrating provocatively. It may also be the perfect film for guys too, serving as equal parts entertainment and education. Its characters’ compelling conversations convey the message that you need not have the abs or dance skills of star Channing Tatum to make a girl swoon; All you need to do is remind them – all of them – that they deserve to be worshiped. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Overnight’

Adam Scott and Taylor Schilling play a young couple that, in an attempt to acclimate to Los Angeles, spends an increasingly bizarre evening with the parents (Jason Schwartzman and Judith Godrèche) of their son’s new friend. (R – 80 minutes)

“The Overnight” would have worked a lot better if its characters were more clearly defined and less responsive to whatever its contrived plot conceived. Forget about the fact that the new comedy’s central conceit is stretched out to just about as far as it can go without snapping while barely spanning a terse runtime. The larger issue involves the characters’ unnatural behavior thereby inhibiting believability. Without that, its potential for substance is diminished and you may as well be watching “A Good Old Fashioned Orgy” – which is much more fun and a whole lot less uncomfortable. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Terminator Genisys’

Jai Courtney plays Kyle Reese who is sent back in time by John Connor (Jason Clarke) to protect Sarah Connor (Emilia Clarke). But when he arrives in 1984, nothing is as he expected it would be. Arnold Schwarzenegger also stars. (PG-13 – 119 minutes)

Seeing Arnold Schwarzenegger return to the role of a T-800 is undoubtedly something that will thrill viewers – especially those who were around in the 80’s. That thrill, however, may be the one and only reason to see “Terminator Genisys” as the new actioner eventually devolves in confusing sci-fi nonsense. After an annoyingly noisy yet mercifully momentary prologue, we travel to the 80’s and have nearly as much fun as we did in the franchise’s first and second entries. But our stay is brief as the bulk of the film takes place in an undistinctive 2017 that drains the movie of its vividly nostalgic appeal. (Thumbs Down!)

Other than gambling, Vegas is known for incredible shows.  Superstars take up residence….Vegas Icons like Elvis, Celine, Britney, and Siegfried & Roy each have their unique draw.  Another such staple is Cirque du Soleil.  The Canadian phenome is now synonymous with Vegas.  This not so subtle creative takeover started with Mystere.  When Treasure Island was being built by Steve Wynn he contracted with Cirque to introduce Vegas to their creative, innovative, elegant and unique style of circus show.  A state of the art theater was built specifically for Mystere.  This was a Vegas first as well—others had to make the show fit the venue.  There truly is not a bad seat in the house for this show.  Whether you are in the front row or in the very last row in the back you are in a great seat with a great view.  Over the years Cirque’s presence in Vegas has grown to now 8 shows on the strip (O, Love, Ka, Zumanity, Criss Angel Believe, Michael Jackson One, Zarkana & Mystere).

From the minute you enter the theater you are enveloped in entertainment and fun.  Your usher may be a clown in disguise—no one is immune to his arsenal of comedic pranks as he moves throughout the theater wreaking havoc and mayhem.  Mystere’s theme is the mystery of life in its beginning stages (how apropos as it was the inception of the Cirque dynasty in Vegas).  As the preshow makes its way to the stage it imperceptibly becomes the show itself as we are introduced to Le Bebe Francois and his big red bouncy ball.  This super-sized baby, played masterfully by R.J. Owens, is a recurring thread throughout the entire show that give us a comedic constant amid the sometimes frenetic flurry of activity on stage.  His childish antics as he goofs around are sooooo much fun to watch.  When he finds himself in trouble or a tenuous situation he reaches out to….his “Papa” or “Mama” in the audience for rescue.  This unsuspecting audience member becomes another recurring character as Le Bebe carries on in his ego-centric infantile way that inevitably lands him in funny situations requiring parental assistance.  Le Bebe’s unscripted interactions with this audience member add fresh, unique fun nightly.

During Mystere, the acts and scenery morph seamlessly.  The stage is ever changing as various parts rise, drop, rotate, appear and disappear.  Despite multiple acts requiring apparatus to be put in place, there is never a break in the action.  While they are securing the trapeze, trampolines or multiple Chinese poles into place, your attention is on some other part of the stage and the transition just “happens” without your conscious noticing.  A person can watch this show multiple times and notice something new each and every time.  This “too much to take in at one time” aspect in conjunction with the unscripted audience participation  and Cirque’s “tweaking” of the show’s acts add to Mystere’s longevity and continued popularity.

It seems that over the years each new Cirque show has gotten more elaborate and technically intricate and innovative which is great, but I believe there is much to be said for the manner in which Mystere stays true to its circus roots.  This show is anything but predictable and is uniquely intricate.  One of the first acts we see is huge Taiko drums and drummers suspended and moving all along the ceiling performing their powerful rhythm in midair.  The largest drum in Mystère is the ōdaiko, which is 6 feet (1.8 m) in diameter and 15 feet (4.6 m) in length, and weighs half a ton.  Since this drum is sooo huge, it was brought in during construction and cannot be removed without destroying it since there is no opening large enough to accommodate its great size (Keene, Jarret (2011). “Drumline”. Inside Cirque du Soleil. Fall 2011: 18–19). The Hand to hand balancing act performed by two brothers while atop a rotating dome center stage is nothing short of amazing–Their strength, flexibility and grace are incredible to behold.  There are double faced gymnasts working the Chinese poles with such dexterity they just seem to float and fly across from pole to pole with ease and they defy gravity stopping their downward slide just short of smashing head first into the floor.  In addition to the staple acts of the high flying trapeze, trampolines, bungee, Korean plank and tumbling acts that Cirque is known for, this show has an Aerial cube act as well.  All the acts are performed by some of the best performers in the industry.  Another phenomenal act is the Aerial tissu solo act added to the show in January, 2012.  What sets this act apart from anything I’ve ever seen is that the aerialist appears to never run out of fabric!  She suspends herself in contortionist poses and spins and flips showing incredible flexibility continuously without ever having to reposition herself!  The system that allows this illusion of never-ending fabric was created by the aerial artist herself, Ginger Ana Griep-Ruiz.

In addition to the incredible acts, the stage is on fire with the creative and colorful costumes and makeup that Cirque is known for.  Whether the huge rainbow snail that grows throughout the show, the red “fire” bird, the lizards, or the huge number of Spermatos and Spermatites on stage, Cirque’s creativity abounds.  Last but not least I must call attention to the beautiful ethereal music that accompanies the action on stage–It is performed live each night!  The vocals are so perfect one would expect it was recorded were it not for the fact you can see her singing off to the side of the stage perched above the action.  This level of showmanship is what we have come to expect of a Cirque show and Mystere does not disappoint.  Mystere is a “must see” on your next trip to Las Vegas!

Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 26 are an actioner about an attempted assassination of the President of the United States, a family adventure about a military dog and a comedy about a foul-mouthed teddy bear.

‘Big Game’

Onni Tommila plays a young boy who, after witnessing a spectacular crash, discovers the escape pod from Air Force One containing the President of the United States (Samuel L. Jackson). When they realize a group of kidnappers is hot on their trail with the intention of taking the president, the unlikely duo must escape their hunters as they search for the American Special Forces team sent out to find them. (PG-13 – 86 minutes)

It is impossible to watch “Big Game” without acknowledging that the new actioner is purposefully preposterous. Writer/director Jalmari Helander, who was responsible for 2010’s delightfully dark fable “Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale,” refuses to reign in his imagination, populating his motion picture with sequences that are laughably ludicrous. However, the viewer’s amusement amplifies with each increasingly outrageous moment. Its comical absurdity only intensifies the exhilaration with star Samuel L. Jackson being the absolute best actor to reflect both tones simultaneously. The flick’s greatest asset, though is Onni Tommila, who also brings a bit of heart and some surprisingly sensible significance to the story. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Escobar: Paradise Lost’

Josh Hutcherson plays a young surfer who falls for the niece of Pablo Escobar (Benicio Del Toro) and finds his life on the line when he is pulled into the dangerous world of the family business. (R – 120 minutes)

“Escobar: Paradise Lost” features a fascinating concept but it fails to fully utilize it. The new thriller takes a fictional story and enrobes it with real history thereby adding an extra element of anxiety to an already intimidating tale. Moreover, stars Josh Hutcherson and Benicio Del Toro turn in commendable performances with the former being the everyday guy with whom we can identify and the latter being a fantastically formidable foe. However, writer/director Andrea Di Stefano rushes through the first act before slamming her foot on the breaks for the second. As a result, true tension is never given a chance to build and disinterest suddenly sets in. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Into the Grizzly Maze’

James Marsden and Thomas Jane play estranged brothers who reunite at their childhood home in the Alaskan wild where they must put aside their differences to defend themselves against an unrelenting grizzly bear that has been terrorizing their town. Billy Bob Thornton and Piper Perabo also star. (PG-13 – 100 minutes)

2015 is turning out to be the year of the bear. Writer/director Adam MacDonald brought us “Backcountry,” Seth MacFarlane introduced us to “Ted 2” and now director David Hackl takes us “Into the Grizzly Maze.” Whereas “Backcountry” excelled with suspense and surprise and “Ted 2” is played strictly for laughs, “Into the Grizzly Maze” takes viewers on a rip-roaring roller-coaster ride through the Alaskan wild with the biggest, baddest and most blood-thirsty grizzly bear they have ever seen hot on their tail. It is extremely exciting and enormously entertaining right up to the edge-of-your-seat, armrest-gripping grand finale. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Kill Me Three Times’

Simon Pegg plays a mercurial assassin who discovers that he is not the only person trying to kill the siren (Alice Braga) of a sun-drenched surfing town and finds himself unraveling three tales of mayhem, murder, blackmail and revenge. Teresa Palmer also stars. (R – 91 minutes)

“Kill Me Three Times” is not only a waste of an extremely talented cast; it is also a waste of viewers’ extremely valuable time. The new crime thriller twists and turns its way around a script that seems to scream “Low-Rent Quentin Tarantino Knock-Off” without ever once presenting anything even remotely original much less interesting enough to grab the audience’s interest. Director Kriv Stenders gets mild props making the movie with as little dialogue as possible but, unfortunately, he is working with a screenplay that simply lacks coherence. As a result, you are left watching with confounded indifference. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Manglehorn’

Al Pacino plays a strange and lonely man who tries to come to terms with a past crime that cost him the love of his life. Holly Hunter also stars. (R – 97 minutes)

“Manglehorn” is an excruciatingly languorous, loquacious and capricious character study. Director David Gordon Green’s new drama is easily one of the filmmaker’s worst efforts to date, featuring entirely too much dialogue and not nearly enough character consistency. Star Al Pacino does his best at creating a vivid-albeit-inert character but it is one whose drastic behavioral changes render him unlikeable and even unbelievable. The film’s single saving grace is actress Holly Hunter, whose on-screen charisma prevents viewers from falling asleep but also makes them condemn Pacino’s character even more for his temperamental treatment of her. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Max’

Josh Wiggins plays a boy who adopts his late brother’s military dog from Afghanistan. His close bond with the soldier’s dog leads to a life-altering revelation. Thomas Haden Church and Lauren Graham also star. (PG – 111 minutes)

As most movies about dogs do, “Max” is guaranteed to extract its fair share of tears from viewers – including early on when the titular German Shepherd runs up to his handler’s casket and mournfully whines. However, the new family adventure flick’s ability to affect extends far beyond the heartbreaking and heartwarming aspects. It also manages to get its audience all riled up, as it stirs up impassioned anger at its villains and earnest anxiety over the course of its exciting story. In other words, it encourages genuine emotional investment from moviegoers who will, when all is said and done, have a strengthened appreciation for the four-legged heroes in their own lives. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Ted 2’

Seth MacFarlane voices a talking teddy bear who must prove he is a person in a court of law in order to qualify to be a parent when he and and his new wife (Jessica Barth) want to have a baby. Mark Wahlberg and Amanda Seyfried also star. (R – 115 minutes)

“Ted 2” certainly possesses the same shockingly distasteful sense of humor as its predecessor and even attempts to raise the bar (or lower it, depending on your particular point of view) with some things that come incredibly close to crossing the line but the novelty element has definitely diminished – if only slightly. The new comedy is undoubtedly funny however not nearly as laugh-out-loud hysterical as its initial entry or writer/director Seth MacFarlane’s previous project “A Million Ways to Die in the West.” Having said that, it more than compensates for that with a surprisingly poignant narrative about civil rights. (Thumbs Up!)

Ted came again and Breakthrough Entertainment is celebrating with civil rights attorney Dorris Markovic and teddy bear artist Amy Goodrich. Actor/producer Kevin Downes also previews his patriotic drama “Faith of Our Fathers” and actor Max Adler and director Matt Ladensack discuss their new LGBT comedy “Saugatuck Cures” while writer/director Paul Osborne promotes the Kickstarter campaign for his film noir thriller “Cruel Hearts.” (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening

Segment 2 – Review: “Ted 2”

Segment 3a – Soundbite Spotlight: Amanda Seyfried, Jessica Barth, Mark Wahlberg and Seth MacFarlane (“Ted 2”)

Segment 3b – Interview: Civil Rights Attorney Dorris Markovic

Segment 4 – Interview: Teddy Bear Artist Amy Goodrich

Segment 5 – Interview: Actor/Producer Kevin Downes (“Faith of Our Fathers”)

Segment 6 – Reviews: “Big Game,” “Escobar: Paradise Lost,” “Into the Grizzly Maze,” “Kill Me Three Times,” “Manglehorn” and “Max”

Segment 7 – Interview: Actor Max Adler and Director Matt Ladensack (“Saugatuck Cures”)

Segment 8 – Interview: Writer/Director Paul Osborne (“Cruel Hearts”)

Segment 9 – Prank Calls: Civil Rights Attorney Dorris Markovic

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Coinciding with the release of “Inside Out,” Breakthrough Entertainment celebrates Pixar Animation and has an “emotional” conversation with Northeastern University Behavioral Science Department Chair Kristen Lee Costa. Other guests include hypnotist Jim Kellner, Cirque du Soleil actor RJ Owens and comedian Lisa Lampanelli while other films featured include “Burying the Ex” and “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl.” (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/”Jurassic World’s” Record-Breaking Box Office

Segment 2 – Review: “Inside Out”

Segment 3 – Bobby Reviews “Jurassic World”

Segment 4 – Interview: Behavioral Science Department Chair Kristen Lee Costa (Northeastern University)

Segment 5 – Soundbite Spotlight: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, Mindy Kaling and More (“Inside Out”)

Segment 6 – Interview: Hypnotist Jim Kellner

Segment 7 – Interview: Actor RJ Owens (Cirque du Soleil: Mystère)

Segment 8 – Interview: Comedian Lisa Lampanelli (“Lisa Lampanelli: Back to the Drawing Board”)

Segment 9 – Closing/Reviews: “Burying the Ex” and “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl”

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 19 are a zom-com from the director of “Gremlins,” Pixar’s animated take on our emotions and a dramedy that walked away with both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.

‘Burying the Ex’

Anton Yelchin plays a young man who has second thoughts about his relationship with his girlfriend (Ashley Greene) after she moves in with him. His problem solves itself when she suddenly dies. However, when he moves on with another woman (Alexandra Daddario), his ex rises from the dead to get him back. (R – 89 minutes)

Boasting incredibly clever writing and a striking visual style that celebrates its cinematic roots, “Burying the Ex” is one hell of an entertaining zom-com. The new flick from “Gremlins” director Joe Dante features a colorful ambiance that truly resembles the genre’s greatest achievements from the 80’s against which its gleefully gory story is made that much more amusingly idiosyncratic. A plethora of puns and several screwball situations keep viewers laughing and engaged as the material gets more and more imaginative, all the while embracing the schlocky fun that it has authentically resurrected from yesteryear. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Inside Out’

Kaitlyn Dias voices a young girl who, uprooted from her Midwest life when her father starts a new job in San Francisco, is guided by her emotions – Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith). (PG – 102 minutes)

“Inside Out” is colorful, creative and poignant – three qualities that together define Pixar, which is a consistent source of animated adventures that simultaneously entertain and affect adults as much if not more than children. On one hand, the studio’s latest effort appears to be its simplest as it deals with a young girl’s predictable actions when faced with something she perceives as an end-of-the-world situation. But while the effect would have been stronger paired with a more weighty dilemma, it remains a universally profound reflection of the importance all emotions – even the seemingly unfavorable ones – play in our lives and especially how our memories – both good and bad – sustain us. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Me and Earl and the Dying Girl’

Thomas Mann plays an awkward high school senior whose mom forces him to spend time with a girl in his class (Olivia Cooke) – with whom he has not spoken to since kindergarten – who was just diagnosed with cancer. (PG-13 – 104 minutes)

“Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” debuted at the Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews, walking away with both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award. And that makes it the most overrated movie of the year as the new dramedy mixes deadpan humor with sappy sentimentalism to extremely awkward effect. Moreover, its most clever components – titles of movies that have been given the no-budget remake treatment by our unsympathetic protagonist – are likely to go way over the heads of general audience members while all of its characters are underdeveloped cliches. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Phantom Halo’

Thomas Brodie-Sangster and Luke Kleintank play brothers who are barely scraping by while their father (Sebastian Roché) continues to gamble and drink away any money they bring home. One of them seizes the opportunity to make some easy money by counterfeiting but when his plan goes awry, the family must decide what’s most important or pay the ultimate price. (R – 87 minutes)

Who among us has not spontaneously broken out into Shakespearean monologue? Because doing so exudes intelligence and fascination. Well, Antonia Bogdanovich believes it does but, unfortunately, it actually exudes pretentiousness and boredom – both in real life and in movies such as the writer/director’s new crime drama “Phantom Halo.” An extremely convoluted plot and a whole lot of bizarre comic book metaphors only make matters worse as it all comes together to create one giant mosh-pit of ideas that do not necessarily meld or even complement each other. As a result, entertainment value – and coherence – is nowhere to be found. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Entertainment celebrates the release of “Jurassic World.” Guests include paleontology consultant Jack Horner and actor Matty Cardarople. Curator of Natural History Robert McCord also discusses the Dinosaur Hall at the Arizona Museum of Natural History while Culinary Specialist Jamie Dunn previews The Taste of Home Cooking School and provides some recipe ideas for your next prehistoric party. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening

Segment 2 – Review: “Jurassic World”

Segment 3 – Soundbite Spotlight: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, BD Wong, Colin Trevorrow, and Steven Spielberg (“Jurassic World”)

Segment 4 – Interview: Paleontology Consultant Jack Horner (“Jurassic World”)

Segment 5 – Interview: Culinary Specialist Jamie Dunn (The Taste of Home Cooking School)

Segment 6 – James Inquires About Erotic Cooking/Bobby Wishes Frozen Happy Birthday

Segment 7 – Interview: Actor Matty Cardarople (“Jurassic World”)

Segment 8 – Interview: Curator of Natural History Robert McCord (Arizona Museum of Natural History)

Segment 9 – Closing

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 12 are the long-awaited new installment in the “Jurassic Park” franchise and a documentary that takes viewers behind the scenes of “Saturday Night Live.”

‘Jurassic World’

Twenty-two years after the events of “Jurassic Park,” Isla Nublar now features a fully functioning dinosaur theme park as originally envisioned by John Hammond. After 10 years of operation and visitor rates declining, in order to fulfill a corporate mandate, a new attraction is created to re-spark visitor’s interest – which backfires horribly. (PG-13 – 123 minutes)

“Jurassic World” is easily this summer’s best movie, boasting the absolutely perfect blend of nostalgia and new. Fans of 1993’s “Jurassic Park” will be completely enamored with the blockbuster sequel as director Colin Trevorrow honors their memories with subtle references while also making their dreams of a fully functioning dinosaur theme park come true in such a way that is even more impressive than they imagined. And everyone – including newcomers who have never known a time before larger-than-life special effects – will be blown away by the thrilling action that rejuvenates the motion picture industry’s power to affect audiences to the degree that they surrender to their senses and suspend all disbelief. (Breakthrough!)

‘Live from New York!’

Filmmaker Bao Nguyen explores “Saturday Night Live’s” early years – an experiment from a young Lorne Michaels and his cast of unknowns – and follows its evolution into a comedy institution encompassing decades of American politics, media, tragedy and popular culture with an irreverent edge. (NR – 90 minutes)

“Live from New York!” is much more than a magnificent movie; it is also a terrific time capsule, captivatingly illustrating how politics, media, popular culture and life in general have evolved over the past 40 years. Granted, filmmaker Bao Nguyen fails to derive any specific insights but his new documentary is – similar to “Saturday Night Live” itself – more of a perfunctory mirror than a profound examination. As such, it makes for an entertaining and interesting behind-the-scenes look at something that not so much a simple television show as it is an accurate albeit exaggerated caricature of our world. (Thumbs Up!)

Tiptoe through the tulips with Breakthrough Entertainment for Songs Made Scary by Horror Movies IV, coinciding with the release of “Insidious: Chapter 3.” Guests include Agamemnon Films CEO Fraser C. Heston (son of screen legend Charlton Heston), actor Tommy Chong (one half of the classic comedy duo “Cheech and Chong”) and musical director Vincent Falcone (longtime collaborator of crooner Frank Sinatra). (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/1920’s Party/Bobby the Flapper

Segment 2 – Lies, Lies, Lies/Review: “Insidious: Chapter 3”

Segment 3 – Interview: Filmmaker Fraser C. Heston (Agamemnon Films)

Segment 4 – Interview: Actor Tommy Chong (“Cheech and Chong”)

Segment 5 – Upcoming Horror Movies

Segment 6 – Eric’s Didgeridoo

Segment 7 – Interview: Musical Director Vincent Falcone (“Frank: The Man. The Music.”)

Segment 8 – What Scares Bobby/Soundbite Spotlight: Leigh Whannell, Stefanie Scott, Dermot Mulroney and Lin Shaye (“Insidious: Chapter 3”)

Segment 9 – Closing/Picks of the Week

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, June 5 are a faith-based flick featuring Ben Franklin and the third installment in the horror franchise that forever changed our perception of Tiny Tim’s “Tiptoe Through the Tulips.”

‘Beyond the Mask’

Andrew Cheney plays a British East India Trading Company assassin who seeks to redeem his past by thwarting a plot against a young nation’s hope for freedom. (PG – 100 minutes)

When you take into account the fact that “Beyond the Mask” is a faith-based flick, its scale is certainly impressive, mirroring more of a big-budget blockbuster than the genre’s generally independent roots. Unfortunately, bigger does not always equal better, as is the case with this cluttered effort that may suffer from trying a tad too hard to appeal to all audiences. One’s attention tends to drift more often than not during the movie. Its admirable messages are there but are not concretely relayed therefore feelings fall short of inspiration. The scenes with Ben Franklin are fun but even they are more about novelty than anything. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Insidious: Chapter 3’

Lin Shaye plays a gifted psychic who reluctantly agrees to use her ability to contact the dead in order to help a teenage girl (Stefanie Scott) who has been targeted by a dangerous supernatural entity. (PG-13 – 97 minutes)

“Insidious: Chapter 3” certainly serves up several scares. Unfortunately, though, they are the kind that cause you to jump – which are immediately gratifying but lack any lasting impact. The third installment in the popular horror film franchise is a slight step up from the fright-free second installment yet could not be further from the original’s ingenuity. Star Lin Shaye, committing to her character as though this were an Oscar contender, is outstanding but everything else about the movie is lackluster – from its too-dark-to-see scenes to its tale’s triviality. Its spiritless pace may be the only reason its jump-scares work as well as they do. (Thumbs Down!)

Coinciding with the release of “San Andreas,” Breakthrough Entertainment’s guests include Dr. Christine Goulet, assistant researcher at University of California, Berkeley’s Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center; Karen Heston, visual effects supervisor at Siren Lab; and Michael Paquette, vice president of marketing at D-BOX Technologies. “Barely Lethal,” “The Human Centipede III (Final Sequence)” and “Survivor” are also reviewed. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Joseph’s Karaoke Party and Inappropriate T-Shirt Bar Crawl

Segment 2 – Review: “San Andreas”

Segment 3 – Giveaways: “Entourage” and “Spy”

Segment 4 – Interview: Michael Paquette (Vice President of Marketing for D-BOX Technologies)

Segment 5 – Interview: Dr. Christine Goulet (Assistant Researcher at University of California, Berkeley’s Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center)

Segment 6 – Interview: Karen Heston (Visual Effects Supervisor at Siren Lab)

Segment 7 – Reviews: “Barely Lethal,” “The Human Centipede III (Final Sequence)” and “Survivor”

Segment 8 – Soundbite Spotlight: Brad Peyton, Alexandra Daddario, Carla Gugino and Dwayne Johnson (“San Andreas”)

Segment 9 – Closing/Dave and Greg’s Earthquake Experiences

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 29 are a genre mash-up starring Hailee Steinfeld, a natural disaster flick starring Dwayne Johnson and a cat-and-mouse thriller starring Milla Jovovich and Pierce Brosnan.

‘Barely Lethal’

Hailee Steinfeld plays a teenage special ops agent who, yearning for a normal adolescence, fakes her own death, assumes the role of an exchange student and quickly learns that surviving the treacherous waters of a typical American high school can be even more difficult than international espionage. (PG-13 – 100 minutes)

“Barely Lethal” is an entertaining film that, while fun, fails to live up to its full potential. The new action-comedy dips its toes into satirical waters with extremely effective results as it references quintessential high school flicks like “Clueless” and Mean Girls.” However, it eventually falls into the trap of taking itself too seriously, becoming just another one of those movies rather than continuing to comedically deconstruct the typical teenage experience. Still, it walks the genre-blending line well with star Hailee Steinfeld convincingly portraying both a badass and a socially awkward young woman, making the movie a buoyantly amusing mash-up. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Human Centipede III (Final Sequence)’

Dieter Laser and Laurence R. Harvey play a prison warden and his right-hand man who, taking inspiration from “The Human Centipede” films, look to create a 500-person human centipede as a solution to their troubled prison’s problems. (NR – 100 minutes)

It probably no longer needs to be said at this point but, just in case anyone accidentally stumbles upon the new threequel, “The Human Centipede III (Final Sequence)” is one of the most revolting things to which you will ever bear witness. Fortunately, deranged writer/director Tom Six increases the comedy and decreases the amount of time spent graphically showcasing twisted surgical procedures from that of his overly obscene second installment. However, the movie remains empty of any value whatsoever and chock full of totally tasteless moments from which – if you have a soul – you will find it necessary to avert your eyes. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Hunting Elephants’

Gil Blank plays a gifted 12-year-old boy who plans a bank robbery with three elderly men (Sasson Gabai, Moni Moshonov and Patrick Stewart) in order to seek revenge on the institution for cheating him after the death of his father. (NR – 107 minutes)

As you might expect, actor Patrick Stewart is the best thing about “Hunting Elephants.” Unfortunately, he plays a relatively small role in the new crime comedy. It is clear that everyone involved knows Stewart is the star. However, the central story is not that of his character. He is simply there to add some much needed color and excitement to an otherwise drab and boring film. Sure, it spouts out the occasionally witty one-liner – most of which are of the senior citizen variety – but its emotions never seem sincere and its plot points are pretty predictable. (Thumbs Down!)

‘San Andreas’

Dwayne Johnson plays a rescue-chopper pilot who, in the aftermath of a massive earthquake in California, makes a dangerous journey across the state in order to rescue his estranged daughter (Alexandra Daddario). (PG-13 – 123 minutes)

“San Andreas” is not a movie. It is a ride – a relentlessly rip-roaring, edge-of-your-seat-and-occasionally-fall-right-off ride. Granted, its track is populated with preposterous plot points and droll dialogue – each line more ludicrous than the last – but these only deepen the diverting nature of the new action-packed thriller, allowing audiences to check life’s annoying anxieties at the door along with their brains and simply have fun. The special effects are astonishing and often cause one’s stomach to drop, constantly inciting an emotional release and making the movie one of the best examples of cinematic escapism in recent years. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Survivor’

Milla Jovovich plays a Foreign Service Officer who, after being mysteriously framed for a terrorist bombing, must evade government capture and death by a ruthless assassin (Pierce Brosnan) in order to stop the real perpetrators’ master-and much deadlier-plan. (PG-13 – 96 minutes)

“Survivor” is one of those movies that appears to have everything going for it yet remains unable to truly take off and reach its full potential. Its cast includes accomplished action stars Milla Jovovich and Pierce Brosnan, its director is James McTeigue – the man responsible for the riveting “V for Vendetta” – and it features the consistently compelling cat-and-mouse setup on a seemingly respectable budget. Unfortunately, the new thriller’s lack of logic, intelligence or inspiration inhibit viewers’ enjoyment of it as everything feels fairly conventional. Jovovich and Brosnan make the best of it and deliver an occasionally exciting sequence but are ultimately unable to lift the quality above that of your average television police procedural. (Thumbs Down!)

Coinciding with the release of “Tomorrowland,” Breakthrough Entertainment takes a trip through Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom. The hosts share their magical memories of the parks while actor Jedidiah Goodacre talks about his roles in “Tomorrowland” and Disney’s “Descendants” and TV personality Dan Davis discusses Disneyland’s Diamond Celebration. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Listeners’ Disney Parks Memories

Segment 2 – Review: “Tomorrowland”

Segment 3 – Interview: Actor Jedidiah Goodacre (“Tomorrowland” and Disney’s “Descendants”)

Segment 4 – Hosts’ Disney Parks Memories

Segment 5 – Reviews: “Good Kill” and “Slow West”

Segment 6 – Disney Parks’ Transformation Through Time

Segment 7 – Interview: TV Personality Dan Davis (Disneyland’s Diamond Celebration)

Segment 8 – Soundbite Spotlight: George Clooney, Britt Robertson, Hugh Laurie and More (“Tomorrowland”)

Segment 9 – Closing/Picks of the Week

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 22 are a thought-provoking thriller starring Ethan Hawke, a western starring Michael Fassbender and a Disney Parks attraction-turned-adventure-flick starring George Clooney.

‘Good Kill’

Ethan Hawke plays an Air Force pilot who, after six tours of duty, now fights the Taliban from an air-conditioned box in the Las Vegas desert. When he and his crew start taking orders directly from the CIA, his nerves – and his relationship with his wife (January Jones) – begin to unravel. (R – 100 minutes)

“Good Kill” is a highly intelligent and thought-provoking motion picture that also manages to be quite the compelling thriller. Writer/director Andrew Niccol’s new project tackles the timely topic of drone warfare in such a way that encourages post-viewing discussion from a very human perspective. Its centerpiece is star Ethan Hawke, who perfectly portrays the ever-increasing stress and decreasing self-respect that we might expect from a man in his precarious position. Fortunately, the film does not solely stimulate one’s mental muscles but also generates genuine tension and emotional unrest – especially during each bloodcurdlingly calibrated airstrike. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Slow West’

Kodi Smit-McPhee plays a young man who, at the end of the nineteenth century, journeys across the American frontier in search of the woman he loves (Caren Pistorius). Along the way, he is joined by a mysterious traveler (Michael Fassbender) and hotly pursued by an outlaw (Ben Mendelsohn). (R – 84 minutes)

To “Slow West’s” credit, at least the new western warns you about its sloth-like pace right from the get-go. Even at a paltry 84 minutes, writer/director John Maclean’s debut feature feels like it takes place over an eternity as its characters mosey along the frontier until finally arriving at a conclusion that is pretty pointless and renders the viewer’s excruciating efforts to remain awake a tremendous waste of time. Its sole takeaway seems to be the same simple message relayed by “A Million Ways to Die in the West” – which was at least a lot more fun to watch. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Tomorrowland’

Britt Robertson plays a young woman who embarks on a danger-filled mission with a former boy-genius (George Clooney) to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space known only as Tomorrowland. (PG – 130 minutes)

“Tomorrowland” starts its story at the 1964 World’s Fair – the venue that Walt Disney used to unveil a couple of his Audio-Animatronic-populated attractions that are now Disney Parks staples, including “It’s a Small World.” These first few minutes are wonderfully magical. Then we back up… er… fast-forward and the new adventure film trades enchantment for entertainment – a quality the movie maintains through to its conclusion. However, at about the halfway point, things begin to get a bit bizarre and befuddling. Still, its message is inspiring and its ideas are imaginative thereby justifying enjoying the relatively uneven ride. (Thumbs Up!)