Among the new movies that were released Friday, Feb. 13 are the steamy cinematic adaptation of a bestselling book and a syrupy sweet romantic drama about courtship in contemporary America.

‘Fifty Shades of Grey’

Dakota Johnson plays a college student who enters into a masochistic relationship with a businessman (Jamie Dornan) whose desires for extreme intimacy pen from secrets in his past. (R – 110 minutes)

Do you like to be punished? Well look no further than “Fifty Shades of Grey,” a romantic drama about BDSM that doles out way more pain than it does pleasure. The new cinematic adaptation of the steamy bestselling book certainly satisfies one’s curiosity but that’s really about it. There are a few effectively stimulating moments but they occur during the… let’s call it foreplay, through dialogue and body language, while the rest of the movie – especially the obligatory sex scenes – is surprisingly boring. Of course, the film’s shockingly poor opinion of women is its worst offense of all though. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Old Fashioned’

Rik Swartzwelder plays a man who must step out from behind his relational theories while Elizabeth Roberts plays a woman who must overcome her own fears and deep wounds as they attempt the impossible – an “old-fashioned” courtship in contemporary America. (NR – 115 minutes)

“Old Fashioned” is not only a wonderful film, it is also an absolutely essential one – especially during this day and age when intimacy seems to be on the endangered species list. The new romance flick may be a bit syrupy sweet at times but its immensely amorous outlook is prodigiously charming. Star Rik Swartzwelder, who also wrote and directed the movie, is guaranteed to enchant women while motivating men to adopt his character’s starry-eyed ideals in hopes that they, too, can win the heart of a woman even half as mesmerizing as his co-star Elizabeth Roberts. (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Feb. 6 are a sci-fi adventure starring Channing Tatum, a fantasy adventure starring Jeff Bridges and a dark comedy starring Ryan Reynolds.

‘Jupiter Ascending’

Mila Kunis plays a young woman who dreams of the stars but wakes up to the cold reality of a job cleaning other people’s houses and an endless run of bad breaks. Only when a genetically engineered ex-military hunter (Channing Tatum) arrives on Earth to track her down does she begin to glimpse the fate that has been waiting for her all along. (PG-13 – 125 minutes)

That surreal feeling you get while watching “Jupiter Ascending” may be a bit befuddling at first. However, anyone who saw last year’s “Annie” can tell you that the Wachowskis’ new sci-fi adventure flick may as well be the fake movie – “Moonlake Quake” – shown in that film. After all, both star Mila Kunis as a character too readily accepting of her strange circumstances, both are littered with dialogue that would make even cheese blush and both feature a few special effects that would look laughable in an episode of “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.” “Moonquake Lake” has got the edge, though, as audiences were subjected to it for less than a minute whereas “Jupiter Ascending” wastes two hours of their time. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Love, Rosie’

Lily Collins and Sam Claflin play a young woman and man who, having been best friends since childhood, face the highs and lows of growing up side by side. A fleeting shared moment, one missed opportunity and the decisions that follow send their lives in completely different directions. As each navigates the complexities of life, love and everything in between, they always find their way back to each other. (R – 102 minutes)

There are an awful lot of hurdles that viewers must jump over in order to even remotely enjoy “Love, Rosie.” The beginning of the new romantic comedy is a jumbled mess, making one lose any interest whatsoever right off the bat. It does get better – much better in fact – but the first 10 minutes of any given movie should set a tone that draws audiences in; not alienates them. Other complications include uncommonly thick accents and the particularly problematic fact that its characters go from their teenage to mature adult years without its stars aging more than a month. However, in spite of all this, romantics will likely lap it up with sheer delight. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Lovesick’

Matt LeBlanc plays a man who has everything going for him except every time he falls for a girl, he goes clinically insane. When he meets he meets the perfect girl (Ali Larter), he must overcome his psychosis to claim his chance at true love. (NR – 85 minutes)

If you can get past its ill-conceived core premise, “Lovesick” is actually kind of a pleasantly weightless romantic comedy with moments of hilarity here and there from massive misunderstandings. Granted, the new movie’s suggestion that we find frenzied jealousy to be an endearing quality is a bit of a big pill to swallow. However, the film is funny because its protagonist’s paranoia is a relatable human experience when it comes to matters of the heart. It may not be the best flick to model a healthy relationship after, but it is certainly entertaining. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Seventh Son’

Ben Barnes plays a young man who, apprenticed to a Spook (Jeff Bridges) to learn to fight evil spirits, encounters his first great challenge when a malevolently powerful witch (Julianne Moore) escapes her confinement. (PG-13 – 120 minutes)

“Seventh Son” may not be remarkably creative much less original but one thing is for certain: It is never the least bit boring. That is to say the new fantasy adventure flick does just about everything in its power to ensure its viewers are having fun, throwing everything from shape-shifting dragons and fire-fueled knights to blood-thirsty bears and colossal giants at them (literally if seen in IMAX 3D). As a result, its action sequences – sustained by some sincerely spectacular special effects – are exceptionally exciting. However, the scenes between each one – otherwise known as the story – leave a lot to be desired. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Voices’

Ryan Reynolds plays a mentally ill factory worker who innocently stumbles into the role of a killer, guided along the way by his evil talking cat and benevolent talking dog. Gemma Arterton, Anna Kendrick and Jacki Weaver also star. (R – 107 minutes)

It takes a lot of guts to end a movie that is essentially about a mentally unhinged serial killer with a cheery song-and-dance number. But “The Voices” has plenty of them. In fact, it has guts galore – both figuratively and literally. The new dark comedy (emphasis on the dark) is a weird and almost off-putting flick that probably requires a certain macabre sense of humor to enjoy. However, it is also enormously amusing thanks to the prolific juxtaposition of quirkiness and morbidity but especially to star Ryan Reynolds whose performance is delightfully peculiar yet also surprisingly endearing. (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Jan. 30 are a dramedy starring Kevin Costner, a dramedy starring Patrick Stewart and a drama starring Marion Cotillard.

‘Black or White’

Kevin Costner plays a man who is suddenly left to care for his beloved granddaughter. When the little girl’s paternal grandmother (Octavia Spencer) seeks custody, a legal battle ensues that forces the families to confront their true feelings on race, forgiveness and understanding. (PG-13 – 121 minutes)

“Black or White” overly simplifies everything in its path. This, most glaringly, applies to its emotions as the new dramedy thickly spreads the schmaltz on each and every one of its scenes. However, probably the most problematic of its oversimplification offenses is in its portrayal of African Americans. This is, quite clearly, a white man’s interpretation. Having said that and especially given that aspect, it is commendably brave of the film to avoid taking the “safe” route and instead ask its audience to empathize with star Kevin Costner’s character – frustratingly flawed as he may be. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Match’

Patrick Stewart plays a Juilliard professor who is interviewed by a woman (Carla Gugino) and her husband (Matthew Lillard) for a dissertation on the history of dance in 1960’s New York. However, it becomes increasingly clear that there are ulterior motives to the couple’s visit. (R – 94 minutes)

Watching “Match” is akin to watching a ball of yarn unravel. At first, the new dramedy’s story strands are drawn tightly around one another. Seeing them slowly loosen, exposing secrets, ulterior motives and – best of all – emotional epiphanies, can be quite compelling with writer/director Stephen Belber’s fable growing more fascinating with each revolution. However, once that ball of yarn is reduced to a smaller size, it unravels faster – with reckless abandon – and its once relatable characters become a bit bizarre in their behavior. And when all is said and done, there is nothing left – the experience being empty, dissatisfying and frankly kind of confusing. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Two Days, One Night’

Marion Cotillard plays a woman who, having just been released from the hospital, discovers that her workmates have opted for pay bonuses in exchange for her dismissal. Over one weekend, she must visit each of her colleagues and convince them to sacrifice the extra money so that she can keep her job. (PG-13 – 95 minutes)

Let’s not kid ourselves: “Two Days, One Night” is – in and of itself – less of a movie and more of a showcase for star Marion Cotillard’s acting abilities. Fortunately for the film, said abilities are remarkable, carrying what is otherwise an exceptionally simple story that plays out in a somewhat episodic fashion. That, at least in this case, is not necessarily a bad thing, as we are drawn deeply into Cotillard’s character’s dilemma, intimately following her emotionally exhausting journey and reflecting upon it as though it is our own. (Thumbs Up!)

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with Doctor Gadget about 2015’s Consumer Electronics Show.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with Bridget Whitman and Teddy Coffey about their experience on “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Jan. 23 are a drama in which Jennifer Aniston plays a woman suffering from chronic pain, a drama in which Elizabeth Banks plays a woman whose son goes missing and a drama in which Julianne Moore plays a woman diagnosed with Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease.

‘Cake’

Jennifer Aniston plays a woman who, suffering from chronic pain, initiates a dubious relationship with a widower (Sam Worthington) while having hallucinations about his dead wife (Anna Kendrick). (R – 98 minutes)

“Cake” has a tendency to kind of just flounder around, leaving viewers stumped as to not only what is going on but especially what is being said about it. After all, we are thrown into this story about a woman who is significantly unlikeable without any backstory. Director Daniel Barnz and screenwriter Patrick Tobin do not give us much to go on either in terms of hints until way late in the game. However a little patience pays off as understanding and empathy eventually wash over you. Until then, a drastically different and praise-worthy performance from star Jennifer Aniston and several surprise co-stars/cameos keep the journey engaging. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Humbling’

Al Pacino plays an over-the-hill stage actor who struggles to find his passion for life again. Near his breaking point, he finds motivation in the form of a young and lustful lesbian (Greta Gerwig). But as their relationship heats up, he has a hard time keeping up with her. (R – 102 minutes)

“The Humbling” operates on a clever concept and features some extremely fruitful ideas. However, the new dramedy’s potential get muddled along the way as cloudy vagueness rolls in, its characters fail to exude any likeability (much less relatability) and bewildering dialogue weighs down almost every scene. Star Al Pacino gives a good albeit bewildering performance that is consistently amusing – especially during moments set at a veterinarian’s office – but by the end it remains unclear as to what viewers are to take away from their time with him. Add in the nerve-grating Greta Gerwig and the experience is simply not worth one’s time, effort or patience. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Little Accidents’

In a small American town still living in the shadow of a terrible coal mine accident, the disappearance of a teenage boy draws together a surviving miner, the lonely wife of a mine executive and a local boy in a web of secrets. Stars include Elizabeth Banks and Josh Lucas. (NR – 105 minutes)

“Little Accidents” could have easily become an absolute bore as its story features few big moments, instead slowly sweeping over viewers with penetrating drama. Even a project with the best of intentions can fall by the wayside with such an approach if the proper conditions are not achieved. Fortunately, writer/director Sara Colangelo successfully executes an authentic therefore captivating atmosphere in the film. The stark setting is the true star here, although a talented cast that includes Elizabeth Banks and Josh Lucas certainly give it a run for its money portraying people whose crises are real, relatable and worthy of our sincere empathy. (Thumbs Up!)

Breakthrough Interviews: Writer/Director Sara Colangelo (‘Little Accidents’)

‘Preservation’

Wrenn Schmidt plays a woman who heads out of town to hunt in a closed nature preserve with her husband (Aaron Staton) and his brother (Pablo Schreiber). Soon the trio is threatened by an unseen menace and the hunters become the hunted as a camping trip in the woods turns into a contest for survival. (NR – 90 minutes)

“Preservation” is a frustrating film. Horror flicks usually have a handful of instances where a character does not properly finish off an attacker during a rare moment of vulnerability or run fast/far enough when their back in turned but the new thriller is chock-full of them. If it were the least bit tongue-in-cheek, as in “You’re Next,” this would make for a lot of fun as you yell and scream at the screen. Here, however, solemnity is the cardinal quality so you can only hold your forehead in your hand with chagrin. Because of this, while it is somewhat thrilling, it never becomes truly engaging. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Song One’

Anne Hathaway plays a young woman who, when her musician brother (Ben Rosenfield) is injured and hospitalized in a coma following a car accident, returns home after a long estrangement and begins to use his notebook as a guide to how his life has evolved in her absence. (PG-13 – 86 minutes)

“Song One’s” melody is seemingly sweet and vaguely intriguing. However, its lyrics do not possess much meaning. That is to say the new drama travels along a path that, while promising, is ultimately cluttered and incoherent. Even the movie’s music is a bit odd and off-putting, likely appealing only to fans of indie folk. But it is the plot taking place in between each number that is particularly problematic as it is never quite clear what writer/director Kate Barker-Froyland is trying to say with this story. The romance is underwhelming while the restorative themes are undefined. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Still Alice’

Julianne Moore plays a renowned linguistics professor who starts to forget words. When she receives a diagnosis of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease, she and her family find their bonds thoroughly tested. (PG-13 – 99 minutes)

Julianne Moore gives an absolutely absorbing performance in “Still Alice,” flawlessly capturing each and every stage of her character’s tragic descent into Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. It is a tricky task as one wrong note can result in either oversentimentality or – even worse – insincerity, but the talented actress tackles it in such a way that realistically reflects the complexity of her character’s condition. As a result, our heartstrings are lightly-yet-competently tugged, bringing us to empathetic tears along the way. It can be argued that the ending is somewhat dissatisfying but it, too, possesses true emotional value. (Thumbs Up!)

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with actress Naomi Grossman about her role as Pepper on FX’s “American Horror Story.”

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with America’s Mighty Warriors Founder Debbie Lee about her son Marc Alan Lee, who is one of several U.S. Navy SEALs portrayed in “American Sniper,” in which Bradley Cooper portrays Chris Kyle – the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history whose pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield but also places a price on his head making him a prime target of insurgents.

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Jan. 16 are a biopic about the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history, a drama set during one of the most crime-ridden year’s in New York City’s history and a family flick featuring one of the most famous bears in literary history.

‘American Sniper’

Bradley Cooper portrays the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history – a U.S. Navy SEAL whose pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield but also places a price on his head, making him a prime target of insurgents. (R – 134 minutes)

“American Sniper” delivers one of the most devastating experiences of the year, leaving viewers absolutely heartbroken once the end credits begin to roll. Director Clint Eastwood’s new biopic based on Chris Kyle’s book is an often unbearably suspenseful film that has moviegoers gasping for air while also perceptively examining the effects of war – physical, psychological and emotional – on both soldiers and their families. The final firefight, taking place smack-dab in the middle of a spellbinding sandstorm, is one of the year’s greatest cinematic accomplishments – as is star Bradley Cooper’s performance, into which the actor almost entirely disappears. (Breakthrough!)

‘A Most Violent Year’

Oscar Isaac plays an immigrant who, in the winter of 1981 – statistically one of the most crime-ridden years in New York City’s history – attempts to capitalize on the American Dream, while the rampant violence, decay and corruption of the day drag him in and threaten to destroy all that he has built. Jessica Chastain also stars. (R – 125 minutes)

“A Most Violent Year” is a most boring movie. Save for a pair of scenes that feature some spectacularly suspenseful foot chases, the new drama is a dry wasteland that very well may put most moviegoers to sleep. To fall asleep would still be somewhat of a disservice to yourself, though, as stars Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain turn in terrific performances despite not having much plot with which to work and Bradford Young’s cinematography is simply stunning. However, the story does not go anywhere and anything resembling a climax – much less “a most violent one” – is nowhere to be found. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Paddington’

Ben Whishaw voices a young Peruvian bear who travels to the city in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined – until he meets the kindly Brown family that offers him a temporary haven. (PG – 95 minutes)

“Paddington” is a magically charming motion picture, every bit living up to author Michael Bond’s classic stories that illuminated many of our childhoods. The new family flick, which blends live-action with computer animation, is vastly imaginative, incredibly cute and most of all wonderfully heartwarming as it wins over audiences of all ages with lots of organic laughs and an earnest story about loving and looking out for one another. Its sole imperfection is that every admission does not come with a marmalade sandwich. Then again, you could always sneak an emergency one into the theater by hiding it under your hat. (Breakthrough!)

‘Vice’

Ambyr Childers plays an artificial inhabitant who, part of the ultimate resort where customers can play out their wildest fantasies, becomes self-aware, escapes and finds herself caught in the crossfire between mercenaries and a cop (Thomas Jane) who is hell-bent on stopping the violence once and for all. (R – 96 minutes)

Bruce Willis continues his streak of receiving above-the-title credit for a role that is basically a glorified cameo in an absolutely atrocious film with “Vice.” Lifting the basic premise from “Westworld” may not in and of itself be a crime but presenting it in such a way that is devoid of any satirical insight whatsoever while exercising ignorance with more genre cliches than an “artificial inhabitant” can compute certainly qualifies the film for a few arrest-worthy charges. Sadly, this is only the first of many similar movies set for release this year. Here’s hoping the rest are at least a little better. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with filmmaker Ian Cheney about his new documentary “The Search for General Tso,” in which he explores the origins and ubiquity of Chinese-American food through the story of an iconic sweet and spicy chicken dish. Celebrity diner David Chan, who is featured in the film, also joins in on the discussion.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with private investigator Niall Cronnolly.

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Jan. 9 are a crime dramedy about a private detective, a science-fiction flick about a temporal agent and a historical drama about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

‘Inherent Vice’

Joaquin Phoenix plays a detective who, in a drug-fueled 1970 Los Angeles, investigates the disappearance of a former girlfriend. Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Benicio Del Toro, Jena Malone, Maya Rudolph and Martin Short also star. (R – 148 minutes)

“Inherent Vice” is inherently incoherent. Writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson’s new crime dramedy – the first cinematic adaptation of a Thomas Pynchon novel – is a narrative mess, babbling about what can only be considered complete nonsense from beginning to end. It is absolutely impossible to follow the film’s stoned storyline so the only benefits to attempting to endure this over-long drivel is its accomplished cast, spectacular soundtrack and occasionally amusing scene – all of which can be seen in the movie’s far more entertaining (and far less time-wasting) trailer. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Mr. Turner’

Timothy Spall portrays British painter J.M.W. Turner, a man who, profoundly affected by the death of his father, loved by a housekeeper he takes for granted and occasionally exploits sexually, forms a close relationship with a seaside landlady with whom he eventually lives incognito. (R – 149 minutes)

Fans of PBS’s “Masterpiece Theater” may go absolutely hog-wild for “Mr. Turner.” What that reaction looks like on said audience may be somewhat of a mystery for the rest of us, though, as is exactly what they see in the beyond boring and superlatively long biographical period piece. It can be said that star Timothy Spall gives a decent performance but most viewers will be so distracted by his indecipherable grunting and groaning that the quality of his portrayal of a particularly unlikeable man may be interminably lost. It is, at most, a very effective sleeping pill. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Predestination’

Ethan Hawke plays a temporal agent, sent on an intricate series of time-travel journeys designed to prevent future killers from committing their crimes, who must stop the one criminal that has eluded him throughout time and prevent a devastating attack in which thousands of lives will be lost. (R – 97 minutes)

“Predestination” may be one of the most mind-boggling movies you have ever seen. The new science-fiction flick starts off innocently enough with a simple story told in flashback that is astonishing in and of itself. However, the second half complicates that story, adding new details to it that make it one of the weirdest tales ever told. Its several shocks and surprises will cause your jaw to drop to the floor like an anvil as you repeatedly gasp with elation over its incomparable creativity. And as if its ingenuity were not enough, the film also features a truly phenomenal performance from star Sarah Snook. (Breakthrough!)

‘[REC] 4: Apocalypse’

Manuela Velasco reprises her role of a television reporter who is rescued from a quarantined building and taken to an oil tanker to be examined. However, it is unbeknown to soldiers that she carries the seed of a mysterious demonic virus. (R – 96 minutes)

With the introduction of “[REC] 4: Apocalypse,” the once-extraordinary horror film franchise has officially ship-wrecked and sunk to the bottom of the ocean, the barrel and the bargain basket at your local big box retailer. After two fantastically frightening entries, the series got silly and, frankly, off-topic in its third outing but at least that installment had a sense of humor whereas this latest effort lacks any unique sense of identity whatsoever. Gorgeous star Manuela Velasco is back but the first-hand found-footage technique is not and the story has stretched entirely too far from its humble beginnings. (Thumbs Down!)

‘The Search for General Tso’

Filmmaker Ian Cheney explores the origins and ubiquity of Chinese-American food through the story of an iconic sweet and spicy chicken dish. (NR – 71 minutes)

“The Search for General Tso” is an onion of a film. On its outermost layer, the new documentary makes your mouth water as you wish each movie ticket came with a great big dish of Chinese food. However, beneath that, it tells remarkable stories of immigration, assimilation and evolution. It is a fine example of how selecting the right subject and remaining focused on said subject can lead to a wealth of both information and entertainment. Who knew that taking a look at one of the unlikeliest subjects for a documentary could be so deliciously enlightening! (Thumbs Up!)

‘Selma’

David Oyelowo portrays Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as he leads a dangerous campaign to secure equal voting rights in the face of violent opposition. (PG-13 – 127 minutes)

There are moments of great strength in “Selma” but there are also moments of monotony. There is no doubt that the new historical drama is an important motion picture. It just knows it is and it suffers as a result of that, too often morphing into vainglorious Oscar-bait with grand speeches and glossy accentuation. It is both a compliment and a criticism that the film feels more like a history textbook brought to life than a piece of entertainment. Nonetheless, the heart of the project is the inspiring depiction of peaceful protest’s power and the movie is well worth a watch because of that. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The World Made Straight’

Jeremy Irvine plays a troubled young man from a rural community haunted by the legacy of a Civil War massacre who struggles to escape the violence that would bind him to the past. (R – 119 minutes)

Actress Minka Kelly sure is nice to look at. But I believe that director David Burris and screenwriter Shane Danielsen were likely hoping to impart a slightly deeper impression than that upon viewers with their new drama “The World Made Straight.” Unfortunately, the film fails to do so, instead coming across as meandering, ponderous and a bit boring. Granted, there is a strong sense of rural ambiance in the flick, which is an adaptation of author Ron Rash’s novel, but when paired with this story’s slow pace it is downright sleep-inducing. Flashbacks to the Civil War only increase the opiate effect. (Thumbs Down!)

20. “Jersey Boys’” look alone is enough to enchant older audiences while younger viewers will be smitten by its story. And then there is the music, which transcends age and transports everyone to a far simpler time.

19. “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me” will break your heart. However, it will also inspire your spirit as it is both remarkably fascinating and exceedingly affecting, culminating with a song that in and of itself is enough to bring anyone to tears.

18. “Pompeii” an absolute blast, entertaining viewers first with engrossing melodrama before eventually having all hell break loose upon it. What it lacks in historical significance it more than makes up for in spectacle.

17. “Locke” is engrossing and star Tom Hardy’s dynamic performance, essentially contained to his unique delivery of this dialogue – which is modified for each person to whom he is speaking – is a spellbinding tour de force.

16. “Cheap Thrills” is an amoral masterpiece that is entertainment at its very best, forcing us to ask ourselves about the lengths that we would be willing to go – and the boundaries that we would be willing to cross – to better our circumstances.

15. “Autumn Blood” is an astonishingly chilling thriller. This immensely visual experience will magnetize you to the edge of your seat and steal your breath away. It is the rare motion picture that is as poetic as it is enthralling.

14. “Gone Girl” is one of the most incredibly involving thrillers of the year, taking viewers on one hell of a ride. It is certain to unsettle and maybe even make the world a more cynical place when it comes to relationships.

13. “Frontera” is a fantastically absorbing drama that marches through heartache to hope. Its final moments are guaranteed to take your breath away while the rest will incite interminably moving meditation.

12. “Rudderless” is an authentically affecting film, elevated by a gut-wrenching twist, a stellar soundtrack and an emotional performance from Crudup that is certain to speak to fathers, sons and anyone else afflicted with heartache.

11. “Moms’ Night Out” draws viewers in with a lot of laughs while dispensing a very admirable message, affording audiences of all ages a rollickingly fun time and allowing the significance of this side-splitting story to be brought out organically.

10. “‘Into the Woods’” energy and enthusiasm are exciting as songs, storylines and characters collide into one extravagant amalgamation. The experience’s uniqueness endures long after you have left the theater.

9. “A Million Ways to Die in the West” is one of the most fun films of the year as it slays with nonstop hilarity, succeeding at making not only an uproarious laugh-fest but also a competent – albeit contemporarily spoken – Western as well.

8. “Life’s a Breeze” authentically reflects both the intense highs and the extreme lows that we experience in life, likely eliciting a few tears before ending on a note of exceptional hopefulness that is certain to paint a permanent smile on your face.

7. “One Chance” is one of the most energizingly feel-good films of the year, capable of encouraging even the most crestfallen viewer to get back up and chase their dream to the ends of the earth.

6. “Grand Piano” is so suspenseful, intriguing and intense that it has your heart racing right alongside the musical score’s frantically paced tempo while taking full advantage of every visual angle imaginable to keep viewers on the extreme edges of their seats.

5. “The Hundred-Foot Journey” essentially epitomizes the term “feel-good flick.” It is difficult to determine what is more delectable – the exceptionally charming story that warms your heart or the luscious looking cuisine that makes your mouth water.

4. “Unbroken’s” story of inconceivable survival encourages reflection and reassessment of one’s own seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This is empowering cinema at its strongest, taking viewers on a heartwrenching-yet-rewarding ride.

3. “The Song” tells a simple story with miraculous beauty, evoking a whirlwind of emotions among audience members – many of whom will not walk out with dry eyes and all of whom will be genuinely moved to profound internal reflection.

2. “Wolf Creek 2” gets your heart racing with a chilling chase through the Australian outback before eventually causing your blood to curdle as predator plays with his prey. It’s not only the year’s best horror movies – it’s one of the year’s best movies period.

1. “Boyhood” is one of the most unique cinematic experiences to which you will ever bear witness. The truthful beauty that emanates from this movie is guaranteed to leave you absolutely awestruck.

Astrologer Kelly Chambers takes “Breakthrough Entertainment” on a journey into 2015.

Countdown Entertainment President Jeff Straus speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about New Year’s Eve in Times Square.

Kissing expert Andrea Demirjian speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about the New Year’s Eve kiss.

“The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2015” Senior Editor Sarah Jansen takes “Breakthrough Entertainment” on a journey through 2014.

Among the new movies that were released Thursday, Dec. 25 are a comedy that North Korea’s Kim Jong-un does not want you to see, a cinematic adaptation of a Stephen Sondheim musical and Angelina Jolie’s directorial turn about one man’s unimaginable journey during World War II.

‘Free the Nipple’

An army of passionate women launch a revolution to decriminalize the female body. Armed with First Amendment lawyers, graffiti installations and national publicity stunts, this mass movement of topless women invade New York City to protest the backwards censorship laws in the USA. (NR – 84 minutes)

Most of the moviegoers who end up seeing “Free the Nipple” will likely not be the filmmakers’ intended audience. And the new drama, which is based on a true story, will be about as effective on them as it is on audience members who may be more maturely receptive to its message – which is to say not at all. Even feminists themselves will likely look down on this heavy-handed, meandering and amateurish effort that cannot even manage to remain on the extra-wide path of women’s liberation themes without straying into silly superficial subplots. (Thumbs Down!)

‘The Gambler’

Mark Wahlberg plays a literature professor and gambler whose debt causes him to borrow money from his mother (Jessica Lange) and a loan shark (John Goodman). Further complicating his situation is his relationship with one of his students (Brie Larson). (R – 101 minutes)

There are moments of remarkable suspense in “The Gambler” – especially during its first scene, which features tension so thick that it could be cut with a playing card. However, there are also moments of unbearable boredom as star Mark Wahlberg’s character goes into long-winded, existential monologue mode. Moreover, some of director Rupert Wyatt’s artistic choices are frustrating while co-star Brie Larson’s character is unlikeably smug and nonessential – as the actress’s roles often are. And to top it all off, there is barely enough story here to keep our interest so our protagonist keeps digging himself a deeper grave to make up for it. (Thumbs Down!)

‘The Interview’

James Franco and Seth Rogen play a television show host and producer, respectively, who land an interview with a surprise fan – North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un – and are recruited by the CIA to turn their trip to Pyongyang into an assassination mission. (R – 112 minutes)

It is impossible to know what one’s unfiltered reaction to “The Interview” might have been without all of the surrounding controversy. If one thing is for certain, though, it is that the new comedy is not – nor will it ever be – as important as North Korea’s antagonistic efforts would lead you to believe. However, while falling short of being audibly funny, it is undeniably entertaining and actually even kind of thrilling. Sure, it’s silly and entirely too over-the-top, but the film features more plot than most of Seth Rogen and company’s movies and the preposterously provocative nature of it all only adds to one’s amusement. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Into the Woods’

Meryl Streep plays a witch who conspires to teach important lessons to various characters of popular children’s stories including Little Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), Cinderella (Anna Kendrick), Jack (Daniel Huttlestone) and Rapunzel (MacKenzie Mauzy). James Corden and Emily Blunt also star. (PG – 125 minutes)

Upon exiting a showing of “Into the Woods,” one feels less like they have just seen a movie and more like they have been to an elaborate stage production. Disney’s new big screen adaptation of the Stephen Sondheim musical remains very true to its source, avoiding a complete cinematic transition and instead embracing its Broadway roots – albeit with a bit of flair. Its energy and enthusiasm are exciting as songs, storylines and characters collide into one extravagant amalgamation. Its last act loses a lot of charm as the tale grows dark and boring but the experience’s uniqueness endures long after you have left the theater. (Breakthrough!)

‘Unbroken’

Jack O’Connell portrays Louis Zamperini, a former Olympic track star who survives a plane crash in the Pacific, spends 47 days drifting on a raft and spends more than two and a half years living in several Japanese prisoner of war camps during World War II. (PG-13 – 137 minutes)

“Unbroken” is absolutely absorbing from beginning to end, emerging as one of the best motion pictures of 2014. Director Angelina Jolie and screenwriters Joel and Ethan Cohen bring author Laura Hillenbrand’s biography about Louis Zamperini to the big screen in such a way that captivates, moves and inspires. Its story of inconceivable survival encourages reflection and reassessment of one’s own seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Star Jack O’Connell gives one of the year’s most impressive performances while his co-star Miyavi portrays a chillingly visceral villain. This is empowering cinema at its strongest, taking viewers on a heartwrenching-yet-rewarding ride. (Breakthrough!)

“Breakthrough Entertainment” speaks with the one – the only – Santa Claus!

Reindeer owner Daryl Simon speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about Crystal Collection Reindeer.

Snowman historian Bob Eckstein speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about his book “The History of the Snowman.”

By: Tara Alves-Zontanos
Throughout my life, I have struggled to understand a deeply disturbing theme, one that has continued to weave in and out of my experience of being a woman in this culture. It is rarely spoken about, but no less known by anyone willing to simply look, this reality of women often behaving with intentional cruelty and harm to other women. I thought as I entered college, and later the professional world, it would change. Much to my dismay, and often to my wonder, it got worse. Now in my 40’s, tired and depleted from battling through innumerable said experiences, I find myself continually striving to eradicate females in my personal and professional circles who I see as consumed with degrading, criticizing, and being unsupportive of other women. I’m not talking about human nature of making a comment here or there, rather the type that are seemingly, “out to get you,” with little or no concern for how their words or actions could hurt you. In my opinion, life is already hard enough for females. Is it not enough that we have to deal with trying to understand the minds and motivations of men that we also have to try to understand those of the women around us too? We have children, we pay bills, we deal with hormones, we have jobs yet are still expected to come home and cook, clean, and take care of our family. The last thing I want to do is worry about why “Sally” from the office doesn’t like me!

As part of my life’s work, it has always seemed the best way to combat such negative nonsense, is with something positive, something inspiring and something uplifting. Over the last year, in collaboration with Breakthrough Thinking Broadcasting Network, we created the program “Empowering Women” to not only highlight women doing incredible things, but also share with other women what is good and wonderful about them, not what is wrong with them! Because, after all, what is beneath the competitively driven snarks and snares is without question a fundamental sense of dis-ease and even dislike of oneself.

In our research for the program, we found outstanding and exemplary women from all over the world. Women not just longing for, but actively cultivating, a greater peace amongst one another. Women living a life of inspiration through their actions and words!

One of our most recent discoveries was a woman right here in our home state of Arizona, Suzy Levenda. Suzy is currently the Business Development Manager with Bookspan Baker Team, a local mortgage group. Prior to this role, Suzy served for a number of years in different capacities of the real estate industry. As a single mother working to support her children, Suzy describes having experienced first hand how cruel some females can be, especially in a highly competitive industry. However, rather than allow herself to be disheartened or embittered, Suzy chose to use her negative career experiences as an inspiration for a now annual event, “Women of Strength: Cultivating Leadership in Real Estate.” Based on the foundation of four actions, Inspire, Encourage, Mentor, and Lead, Suzy set out to put on an event that would not only change her industry, but also extend to how women interact with one another in their personal lives.

Working as a Realtor myself, I fully understood this initiative and the need for women to grow in collaboration, authenticity, support and kindness. As females in what was once a “man’s world,” how precious and valuable it is to know we have a network of others who live and experience the same challenges on a daily basis, and to support one another in our commonness. I can say, attending Suzy’s event was as powerful, touching, and inspiring as the mission behind it! The energy in the room was contagious. It felt as if everyone were part of a larger purpose, and that was nothing short of powerful!

The guest speakers ranged from female empowerment poet, Natalie Patterson to Real Estate powerhouse Shivani Abrol Dallas, and also included the thoughtful female writer, Yvonne Watterson. Their messages were of encouragement, hope, laughter, and the grace of positivity. All with the bottom line of being fearless females, passionate, and compassionate. There were many a teary eye when various industry leaders were honored, including Torey Gannon, Bryan Choate, Shivani Abrol Dallas, Carin Nguyen, Angela Kieran, and Brenda Kohles-Provost.

What Suzy Levenda has created with this event is worthy of replication in every industry and community nationwide. The strength behind bringing women together is immeasurable, and so needed in our world today. Our gratitude to Suzy for taking the initiative and turning a negative into a positive! We look forward to watching her vision grow, and know that lives are being changed.

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Dec. 19 are a cinematic update of a classic musical, a romantic dramedy starring Justin Long and Emmy Rossum and the final installment in the “Night at the Museum” trilogy.

‘Annie’

Quvenzhané Wallis plays a foster kid who has had a hard knock life with her mean foster mom (Cameron Diaz). But everything changes when a hard-nosed tycoon and New York mayoral candidate (Jamie Foxx) makes a thinly-veiled campaign move and takes her in. Rose Byrne and Bobby Cannavale also star. (PG – 118 minutes)

The energy of “Annie’s” music and the soul of its story make the new cinematic update of the classic movie musical an endearingly enchanting piece of entertainment for audiences of all ages. Granted, purists – particularly those who grew up watching the 1982 adaptation – will likely initially reject this take and its copious distinctions, but this remains the magically uplifting tale with which we are all familiar therefore even they may have their hearts softened and smiles spread across their faces before all is said… er… sang and done. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Comet’

Justin Long and Emmy Rossum play star-crossed lovers whose relationship blooms and unravels over the course of six years. (R – 91 minutes)

“Comet” desperately wants to be “500 Days of Summer” but it crashes and burns so badly that the viewer almost despises the earlier film simply for planting the seed for this film in writer/director Sam Esmail’s head. Granted, stars Justin Long and Emmy Rossum are amazing actors and, individually, remarkably reflect the various stages of the relationship’s effect on their characters. However, their chemistry just is not there, making the whole film feel feigned. The much larger problem, though, is the jumbled aspect of time, which jumps forward and backward with abandon. It is the romantic dramedy’s defining quality but it also makes viewers’ heads spin faster than Earth itself. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb’

Ben Stiller reprises his role as a museum night watchman who, this time, spans the globe, uniting favorite and new characters while embarking on an epic quest to save the magic before it is gone forever. (PG – 90 minutes)

“Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb” is imaginative yet uninspired. In other words, there are plenty of special effects to look at as dinosaur bones, brass snakes and Greek statues come to life in the third – and final – installment of director Shawn Levy’s family-flick franchise but none of it extends beyond superficial eye-candy. Moreover, our hearts remain untouched – unless you count a few coincidentally key lines of dialogue from the late Robin Williams in his final on-screen appearance. The youngest audience members may be mesmerized but most everyone else will fail to feel the magic. (Thumbs Down!)

“Overhaulin'” co-host Adrienne Janic speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about winter weather travel tips.

Writer/director Jennifer Kent speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about her new horror flick “The Babadook,” in which Essie Davis plays a woman who, six years after the violent death of her husband, struggles to discipline her 6-year-old son (Noah Wiseman) whose dreams are plagued by a monster he believes is coming to kill them both.

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Dec. 12 are a horror flick imported from Australia, a dramatic thriller set in the snow and a biopic about the man responsible for modern-day computing.

‘The Babadook’

Essie Davis plays a woman who, six years after the violent death of her husband, struggles to discipline her 6-year-old son (Noah Wiseman) whose dreams are plagued by a monster he believes is coming to kill them both. (NR – 94 minutes)

A promising premise of a child’s storybook villain coming to life is squandered in “The Babadook,” a horror flick that is less about legitimate scares than it is about a psychological breakdown – for both its protagonist and its viewers. Star Essie Davis gives a great performance as a woman who demonstrates all of the side effects of a nervous breakdown short of pulling her hair out but her depiction is merely a reflection of moviegoers’ frustration as the film slowly devolves into a state of sheer lunacy, where everything is annoying and nothing makes sense. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Interviews: Writer/Director Jennifer Kent (‘The Babadook’)

‘The Captive’

Ryan Reynolds plays a father who, years after the mysterious disappearance of his daughter (Alexia Fast), risks everything to ensure her safe return when detectives discover recent images of her online. Rosario Dawson, Scott Speedman and Mireille Enos also star. (R – 112 minutes)

It may at first take some time to become accustomed to the messy chronology of “The Captive.” However, the extra effort is well worth it as the new dramatic thriller takes you on an appropriately adjectified captivating ride. Writer/director Atom Egoyan takes some pretty significant liberties that require some suspension of disbelief but that only intensifies the plot’s remarkable unpredictability. Moreover, the tension tightens with each passing moment, leading to a scene of confrontation that will draw you as close to the edge of your seat as physically feasible. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Imitation Game’

Benedict Cumberbatch portrays a mathematician and cryptanalyst who helps crack the Enigma code during World War II. Keira Knightley and Matthew Goode also star. (PG-13 – 114 minutes)

In “The Imitation Game,” Benedict Cumberbatch’s Alan Turing often stresses to his supporting characters the importance of paying attention. Moviegoers would be wise to heed his advice as well as the new biopic is a challenging and often patience-testing motion picture. However, it is also an incredibly intelligent and remarkably rewarding one, chronicling the life of a man whose unappreciated genius is responsible for something on which we currently heavily rely – modern-day computing. In addition to just telling an absolutely absorbing story, the movie also features a phenomenal performance from Cumberbatch that is simultaneously heartbreaking and inspiring. (Thumbs Up!)

 The Greatest Entertainer of Our Time Whether it is the holiday season or just another day of the week, there are those special individuals that have such a passion for life that the gifts and talents they give to the world result in pure joy and happiness with lots of smiles.  When you meet such an individual you can’t help but beam with admiration, respect and praise for what they do, how they do it and the impact they have on others.   I came across such an individual a week ago Monday evening and I was in total awe of the impact he had on his audience.   Fun, laughter, joy, warmth, touching moments and amazement.  Amazement in the fact that this was a variety show with 9 characters (Puppets) however each played by the same individual.  His name is Terry Fator and his show is called Country Christmas now playing at the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas through December 25th.   Terry has this unique ability to combine humor with singing and witty dialogue as a ventriloquist.   And if that is not enough, Terry impersonates to perfection the singing voices of some of the most popular musical artist of our time.  From Cher to Louis Armstrong to Judy Garland, along with Etta James, Barry White, Bing Crosby, Garth Brooks, Eartha Kit, Rod Stewart and others.   What is amazing is his ability to control his body language as he transfers the singing, passion, rhythm and movement to the puppets while he maintains his part as the puppeteer.   This is a talent I have never thought possible however Terry Fator does it with perfection.   I can only imagine the difficulty of being a ventriloquist, yet adding the impersonation of the best and well known singers of our time and still yet, able to transfer the passion, rhythm and movement while maintaining a sidekick position, is nothing short of remarkable.   Terry Fator’s Country Christmas is a show suitable for the whole family as it incorporates a festive celebration of Christmas including song selections of some of the best Christmas songs ever made (White Christmas, Santa Baby, Baby It’s Cold Outside, O Holy Night, Winter Wonderland, and many more), along with a set design that overflows with warmth as if you were sitting in your own living room with Terry and his cast of characters and other cast members including Taylor (Terry’s wife), Ben Harris (Dancer and opening act) and a Fabulous band.  The set design included a Christmas tree, presents, screens in the background that complimented each character along with a nice fire on the screen at center stage to give a comfort and coziness of bundling up next to a fire.   The puppets that came to play at this extraordinary Christmas show were very funny with unique personalities.  Some of the puppets included:   Winston (A turtle who can impersonate any singer).   Maynard Thompkins (The world’s greatest Elvis impersonator who doesn’t’ actually know any Elvis songs).   Duggie Scott Walker (Terry’s annoying neighbor, a hard partying dude who lives in Nevada with a Colorado state of mind).   Vikki the Cougar (Vikki is the ultimate cougar, always on the prowl for young men who live rich and see poorly).   Plus many of the other puppets that are part of Terry’s stable of characters.   If you truly want to make this Holiday season something you will never forget, see Terry Fator’s Country Christmas now playing through December 25 at the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas.   And after Christmas, you can catch Terry Fator:  “The Voice of Entertainment” performing all year long at the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas.

Filmmaker Mitchell Kezin speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about his new documentary “Jingle Bell Rocks!,” in which he shares with viewers an exclusive backstage pass into the underground world of alternative Christmas music.

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Dec. 5 are a Christmas comedy starring Robin Williams, a comedic murder mystery starring Fran Kranz and personal transformation drama starring Reese Witherspoon.

‘Before I Disappear’

Shawn Christensen plays a young man whose half-hearted suicide attempt is interrupted by an urgent request from his sister (Emmy Rossum) to babysit her precocious daughter (Fatima Ptacek). So begins a madcap tour of Manhattan after dark, as uncle and niece find unexpected bonds in the unlikeliest of places. (NR – 93 minutes)

“Before I Disappear” is a mysteriously magnetic movie. It is often too artistic for its own good – a quality that only pays off during a surreal scene set to music in a bowling alley – and, essentially expanding on writer/director Shawn Christensen’s short “Curfew,” it features more padding than an oversized stuffed bear. However, it is also authentically affecting with its story of a man whose life is saved by a sudden sense of purpose in the form of a young girl. Christensen manages to make a mostly dark and depressing world charming, offering his viewers some much needed hope. (Thumbs Up!)

‘By the Gun’

Ben Barnes plays a young Boston Italian who, while trying to find purpose in the ideology of the mafia, finds his world turned upside down. (R – 109 minutes)

“By the Gun” plays it by the book. For some, that may be an appealing quality, as the new mafia flick follows the formula that have made movies like “Goodfellas,” “Mean Streets” and “The Godfather” stand the test of time. However, it also does not do anything different to substantiate the need for its existence. Granted, the film features a few fine performances from star Ben Barnes and his supporting cast members Kenny Wormald, Harvey Keitel and Toby Jones but without a particularly groundbreaking cinematic vision or at least a meaty screenplay, their efforts are essentially empty. (Thumbs Down!)

‘A Merry Friggin’ Christmas’

Joel McHale plays a man whose family is forced to spend a dreaded Christmas at his parents’ house with his eccentric father (Robin Williams) that he has been avoiding for years. When he realizes that he left his son’s gifts at home, he and his father must hit the road in a blizzard to retrieve the gifts before sunrise to save Christmas. (NR – 88 minutes)

“A Merry Friggin’ Christmas” may be one of the most uncomfortable movies to watch of the year – for two reasons. First, star Robin Williams portrays the devastating heartache experienced by his character in an eerily accurate fashion. Second, the holiday comedy is simply not very good – a fact that is difficult to admit since it features one of the late actor’s final on-screen appearances. However, a talent such as his deserves so much more than a plot straight out of the television sitcom handbook. To make matters worse, it just does not feel that festive and its emotional notes ring false and feigned. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Murder of a Cat’

Fran Kranz plays an action figure designer who wakes up one morning to find his impaled by a crossbow arrow and sets off to find out who killed him and why. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a town-wide conspiracy far greater than he ever imagined. (NR – 101 minutes)

At some point during the final act of “Murder of a Cat,” you are guaranteed to ask yourself, “What does any of this have to do with the murder of a cat?” Well, the new comedic murder mystery eventually answers that question but it is not a very satisfying – much less clever – answer. Fortunately, until that time, you are likely to be too amused by the kooky characters and silly storylines to remember the film’s title and far more promising initial premise. Still, the talent involved deserve much better – although they do make the most of their roles, none more so than star Fran Kranz with his most entertainingly eccentric character to date. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Interviews: Actor Fran Kranz (‘Murder of a Cat’)

‘Wild’

Reese Witherspoon plays a woman who, with the dissolution of her marriage and the death of her mother, hikes more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail – alone. (R – 115 minutes)

If it had not been preceded by the release of the similarly themed “Tracks” just a few months earlier (which had the added allure of camels), “Wild” may actually impress. After all, star Reese Witherspoon gives a decent although unexceptional performance while the film features beautiful cinematography and an admirable portrayal of personal transformation. However, that transformation takes shape all within the final few moments and is therefore unearned while its protagonist is at least a little unlikeable, reducing the potential for emotional resonance. The jumbled flashbacks and various pit stops do not help matters much, either, as they remove viewers from the isolative experience. (Thumbs Down!)

Actor Fran Kranz speaks with “Breakthrough Entertainment” about his role in the new comedic murder mystery “Murder of a Cat,” in which he plays an action figure designer who wakes up one morning to find his impaled by a crossbow arrow and sets off to find out who killed him and why. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a town-wide conspiracy far greater than he ever imagined.