Coinciding with the release of “Pitch Perfect 2,” Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with musical artist Roopak Ahuja of MO5AIC. Writer/director Chris Dowling and actor Kristoffer Polaha also talk about their new dramedy “Where Hope Grows” while actors/producers Scotty Crowe and Jessica Cummings discuss their drama “Astraea” and executive director Danette Wolpert and producer Jane Charles preview the Illuminate Film Festival, including the drama “Sold.” (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Joseph’s Havasupai Adventure

Segment 2 – Review: “Pitch Perfect 2”

Segment 3 – Interview: Musical Artist Roopak Ahuja (MO5AIC)

Segment 4 – Reviews: “Area 51,” “Echoes of War,” “Every Secret Thing,” “I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story” and “Where Hope Grows”

Segment 5 – Interview: Writer/Director Chris Dowling and Actor Kristoffer Polaha (“Where Hope Grows”)

Segment 6 – Interview: Executive Director Danette Wolpert (Illuminate Film Festival)

Segment 7 – Interview: Actors/producers Scotty Crowe and Jessica Cummings (“Astraea”)

Segment 8 – Interview: Producer Jane Charles (“Sold”)

Segment 9 – Reviews: “5 Flights Up,” “The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared,” “Bravetown,” “The D Train,” “Maggie,” “Misery Loves Comedy,” “Playing It Cool,” “Ride” and “Welcome to Me”

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 15 are a documentary about the man behind a beloved and iconic character, a sing-songy sequel to a 2012 comedy and a dramedy that disproves the beliefs many people possess about Down syndrome and other so-called disabilities.

‘Area 51’

Three young conspiracy theorists attempt to uncover the mysteries of Area 51 – the government’s secret location rumored to have hosted encounters with alien beings. What they find at this hidden facility exposes unimaginable secrets. (R – 95 minutes)

It is obvious to see why “Paranormal Activity” writer/director Oren Peli’s found footage horror flick “Area 51” sat on the shelf for six years before finally being released (and under the radar rather than with any fanfare whatsoever). On the plus side, those whose anticipation has not waned with time are well-equipped with the patience required to arrive at anything that remotely resembles something scary. After an hour and fifteen minutes of annoyingly uneventful exposition, the film’s chaotic finale disappoints in that we do not see anything alien. Moreover, most moviegoers cannot identify with and therefore get frightened from a government facility in the same way that they can a haunted house. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Echoes of War’

James Badge Dale plays a Civil War veteran who returns home to the quiet countryside only to find himself embroiled in a conflict between his family and the brutish cattle rancher (William Forsythe) harassing them. Ethan Embry and Maika Monroe also star. (R – 100 minutes)

“Echoes of War” is a good example of why one should never trust outward appearances. The new historical drama features vivid cinematography and a promising cast that includes James Badge Dale, William Forsythe, Ethan Embry and Maika Monroe. However, the film is in desperate need of a little life as it moves along at a snail’s pace and puts the viewer to sleep in the process (or lack thereof). Writer/director Kane Senes and co-writer John Chriss do not populate the story with enough substance to warrant its runtime. To make matters worse, the dialogue is wooden and not at all reflective of real Civil War-era life. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Every Secret Thing’

Elizabeth Banks plays a police detective who, 8 years after her failure to save the life of a missing child from the hands of two young girls (Dakota Fanning and Danielle MacDonald), must race the clock to prevent history from repeating itself when another child goes missing in the same town just days after the girls are released from juvenile detention. Diane Lane also stars. (R – 93 minutes)

Directed by documentarian Amy Berg, “Every Secret Thing” boasts a visual style that resembles reality thereby releasing an alarmingly uncomfortable feeling upon its viewer. That feeling is made even more effective by convincing performances from the new thriller’s talented cast of both established actors like Elizabeth Banks and newcomers like Danielle MacDonald. Unfortunately, Berg’s documentary-like approach comes complete with a slower-than-molasses pace that prevents any tension from building. This loose atmosphere along with an eventual dependence on procedural elements subvert the film’s aforementioned attributes and make the movie somewhat boring – a true crime considering its potential. (Thumbs Down!)

‘I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story’

Filmmakers Dave LaMattina and Chad N. Walker document the life of the man who has been “Sesame Street’s” Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch since 1969. And at 78 years old, he has no intention of stopping. (NR – 90 minutes)

“I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story” has a heart that is every bit as big as the one that you would imagine beats behind the iconic character’s yellow feathered chest. Aside from the sheer fascination factor as filmmakers Dave LaMattina and Chad N. Walker peel back the curtain of a universally beloved piece of our childhood, Caroll Spinney’s story reveals the man’s remarkable creativity and indelible commitment to the character, acting as inspiration for the viewer to live their own life with the same level of passion and – perhaps more importantly – unconditional love. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Pitch Perfect 2’

Anna Kendrick reprises her role as a member of the Barden Bellas who, after a humiliating command performance at Lincoln Center, enter an international competition that no American group has never won in order to regain their status and right to perform. (PG-13 – 114 minutes)

“Pitch Perfect 2” is just a bit aca-better than its 2012 predecessor, acknowledging its glee-ful goofiness in the same vein and “Bring It On” rather than consistently taking itself too seriously – a misstep that made the first movie more frustrating than fun. The latter quality is undoubtedly the focal point this time around, even though the sing-songy sequel’s quirks can still occasionally get on a viewer’s nerves. The values surrounding friendship, unity and tradition that it advocates are admirable and fairly affecting but its extremely entertaining enthusiasm is the runaway reason to see it as are the amusing, absurdly performed mashups and medleys. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Where Hope Grows’

Kristoffer Polaha plays a self-destructive former pro baseball player who is given a serious lesson in living life with courage when he befriends a grocery store clerk with Down syndrome (David DeSanctis). (PG-13 – 95 minutes)

“Where Hope Grows” truly lives up to its title, instilling hope in those that may feel lost or forlorn while warming an awful lot of hearts along the way. The new dramedy does a lot to disprove the beliefs that many people possess about Down syndrome and other so-called disabilities. However, that is only a fraction of the film’s proficiency. Its touching story communicates how human connection – in particular genuine friendship – is the key to not only healing but living a fulfilling and fortuitous life. Newcomer David DeSanctis earns everyone’s sincere admiration while star Kristoffer Polaha accurately characterizes a flawed individual with which we can all identify. (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 8 are a drama set in a small town in North Dakota, a comedy centered around a high school reunion and a coming-of-middle-age dramedy that develops on the beach.

‘5 Flights Up’

Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton play a long-time married couple who, having spent their lives together in the same New York apartment, become overwhelmed by personal and real estate-related issues when they plan to move away. (PG-13 – 92 minutes)

“5 Flights Up” is an odd little film that juggles several story elements – all of which are enigmatically absorbing despite feeling as though they are ultimately trivial. That is to say that the new drama makes for some enjoyable entertainment in the moment but lacks end-of-the-day gravity aside from a simple week-in-the-life sentiment. Fortunately, that impression – although featherweight – is emotionally rich. Some of the aforementioned story elements are stronger than others (a dog falling ill vs. the hunt for a suspected terrorist) while the essentiality of each one is debateable but the dynamic between stars Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton is definitively delightful. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared’

Robert Gustafsson plays a 100-year-old man who, after living a long and colorful life, finds himself stuck in a nursing home and decides to leap out a window and begin an unexpected journey. (R – 114 minutes)

“The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared” can be easily divided into two halves – one vividly entertaining and the other drably boring. The entertaining half of the new film, which is based on the internationally best-selling novel by Jonas Jonasson, takes place in the present as our senior-yet-spry protagonist embarks on a constantly unpredictable adventure during which he picks up a few new friends – and a boat-load of cash. The boring half takes place in the past as we learn a little bit about said protagonist’s background – none of which seems to be even the least bit relevant to his current and far more colorful undertaking. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Bravetown’

Lucas Till plays a hardened New York City teen from a broken home who is sentenced to counseling for a minor drug infraction along with an extended stay with his estranged father, who lives in a small town in North Dakota. When he is asked to help out the last-place dance team as they vie for the state competition title, his rough exterior begins to soften. (R – 112 minutes)

“Bravetown” is a mishmash of several storylines that feel as though they were lifted from other films and pieced together like the world’s weirdest jigsaw puzzle. Worst of all, some of said storylines fail to make any substantial sense and/or never quite receive a proper conclusion. Having said that, it is difficult to dislike the new drama as its heart is in the right place and its cast is composed of mostly amiable actors with Kherington Payne being the sole exception due to her forced and feigned performance. Unfortunately, the emotional takeaway is too light to nullify the movie’s many imperfections. (Thumbs Down!)

‘The D Train’

Jack Black plays a man who travels from Pittsburgh to Los Angeles to convince the most popular guy from his high school (James Marsden), who is now the face of a national Banana Boat ad campaign, to show up with him to their class reunion. But he gets more than he bargains for as his former classmate proceeds to take over his home, career and entire life. (R – 97 minutes)

Add “The D Train” to Jack Black’s long list of cinematic trainwrecks in which he plays a character so exasperatingly annoying that you have homicidal thoughts as a result of being forced to spend an hour and a half with him. Unfortunately, Black’s character is not the only one who gets on your nerves during the new comedy. In fact, Kathryn Hahn portrays the movie’s only character who is even remotely deserving of our empathy while everyone else comes across as a mean-spirited stereotype whose actions and behaviors run completely contrary to real-life. Worst of all, though, are the film’s offensively feigned emotions. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Maggie’

Arnold Schwarzenegger plays a father who, when a deadly zombie virus sweeps the nation, will stop at nothing to save his infected daughter (Abigail Breslin). (PG-13 – 95 minutes)

Casting Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Maggie” is about as useful as if Stephen Hawking had been cast in “Furious 7.” Schwarzenegger’s participation in the project encourages one to have a certain expectation of action. However, the new dramatic horror flick features so little action that you can almost hear the actor’s muscles deteriorating during the plot’s tortoiselike trek from beginning to end. The movie is much more a drama than it is a horror, blending the zombie genre with a disease-of-the-week Lifetime film. It is an intriguing concoction but, unfortunately, is done no favors by its out-of-their-depth cast – not to mention its placid pace and near-nil lighting. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Misery Loves Comedy’

Filmmaker Kevin Pollak chronicles comedians sharing life and professional journeys and insights in an effort to shed light on the thesis: Do you have to be miserable to be funny? (NR – 95 minutes)

Think back to your high school English class and you may remember your teacher giving you the following advice before you began to write any given essay: Organize your thoughts before you put pen to paper. The same rule applies to a feature film – especially a documentary. Filmmaker Kevin Pollak forgot to follow that essential step when setting out to make “Misery Loves Comedy.” Granted, he has got a thesis, which is right there in the title, but his ideas are all over the place, making the new motion picture a cluttered collection of talking heads. Pollak somehow managed to make more than 60 comedians not only unfunny but boring as well. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Playing It Cool’

Chris Evans plays a man who, while pretending to be a philanthropist at a charity dinner, meets the woman of his dreams (Michelle Monaghan) who happens to be already engaged. They embark on a platonic relationship that is put to the test when they begin to realize they may have feelings for one another. (R – 94 minutes)

“Playing It Cool” appears to think a bit too highly of itself but if you can look beyond that pretentiousness then you are likely to find an entertaining and perceptive romantic comedy. The new flick’s unusually large ego is somewhat justifiable in that it points out all of the shamelessly uninventive rom-com cliches it either directly hits or narrowly misses along the path of its plot. Although astute and often amusing, this observant approach can also occasionally annoy. On the other hand, its insight into real relationship anxieties and expectations is quite clever, resonating with viewers’ own thoughts and behaviors in and out of love. Moreover, stars Chris Evans and Michelle Monaghan are charming while their many supporting actors are a lot of fun. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Ride’

Helen Hunt plays a New York City magazine editor who follows her son (Brenton Thwaites) to Los Angeles after he drops out of college to surf and find himself and ends up being the one thrust into a sea change of self-discovery. (R – 93 minutes)

As a romantic and coming-of-middle-age dramedy, “Ride” hangs ten, being both enjoyable to watch and emotionally perceptive. As a mother/son relationship dramedy, however, it wipes out. Writer/director/star Helen Hunt’s incessant bickering with Brenton Thwaites is instantly nerve-grating and their unique bond is a bit too bizarre to carry any sincere sentimental significance. Fortunately, that subplot often takes a backseat to Hunt’s character’s solo struggle and seeing her attempt to tackle a new skill – surfing – that runs contrary to her intellectual nature is as entertaining as it is resonant while her interactions with co-star Luke Wilson are quite charming. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Welcome to Me’

Kristen Wiig plays a woman with Borderline Personality Disorder who wins the lottery, quits her psychiatric meds and buys her own talk show on which she broadcasts her dirty laundry as both a form of exhibitionism and a platform to share her peculiar views on everything from nutrition to relationships to neutering pets. (R – 87 minutes)

“Welcome to Me” is mildly amusing but that really is the full extent of its value. The new comedy fails to extract any poignant significance from the silly story that it puts on display. The film follows in the footsteps of “The Truman Show” and “EDtv” with respect to its theme but, unlike those two brilliantly perceptive projects, it does not strive to be anything more than diverting entertainment in the same vein as a sketch on star Kristen Wiig’s former mainstay “Saturday Night Live.” Wiig is gratifyingly goofy and her long list of co-stars makes for never a dull moment but it is a shame that such a fruitful concept falls so flat in insight. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Entertainment celebrates the release of “Avengers: Age of Ultron” with several super special guests, including author Mark Edlitz (“How to Be a Superhero”), voice actor Roger Craig Smith (“Avengers Assemble” and “Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts”), actor Patrick Sabongui (“The Flash”) and actor William Daniels (“Captain Nice” and “Boy Meets World”) and featuring Fondue for Two with Stan Lee! (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Introduction

Segment 2 – Review: “Avengers: Age of Ultron”

Segment 3 – Interview: Author Mark Edlitz (“How to Be a Superhero”)

Segment 4 – Fondue for Two: Stan Lee

Segment 5 – Interview: Voice Actor Roger Craig Smith (“Avengers Assemble” and “Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts”)

Segment 6 – Review: “Adult Beginners”

Segment 7 – Interview: Actor Patrick Sabongui (“The Flash”)

Segment 8 – Interview: Actor William Daniels (“Captain Nice” and “Boy Meets World”)

Segment 9 – Closing/Superhero Movie Preview

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, May 1 are a dramedy in which Nick Kroll and Rose Byrne play siblings and an actioner in which Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth and Mark Ruffalo play superheroes who team up to save the planet from destruction at the hands of a villainous robot.

‘Adult Beginners’

Nick Kroll plays a young, hipster entrepreneur who crashes and burns on the eve of his company’s big launch. With his entire life in disarray, he leaves Manhattan to move in with his estranged pregnant sister (Rose Byrne), brother-in-law (Bobby Cannavale) and three year-old nephew in the suburbs – only to become their manny. (R – 90 minutes)

Unlike last year’s painfully flat “The Skeleton Twins,” “Adult Beginners” is an amusing-yet-perceptive look at sibling relationships. Granted, the new dramedy does not unearth any shocking revelations; nor does it tread any new ground in terms of its story or sense of humor. However, the emotional truths behind the bond that brothers and sisters share are on explicit display in an incredibly identifiable – not to mention enjoyable – way. A great deal of the movie’s success is a direct result of its trio of talented leads, each of whom gives an earnest performance that earns our empathy while also being both affable and fun to watch. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’

Robert Downey, Jr. reprises his role as Tony Stark a.k.a. Iron Man who this time attempts to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program. When things go awry, he along with Captain America (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) are put to the ultimate test as they battle to save the planet from destruction at the hands of the villainous Ultron (James Spader). (PG-13 – 141 minutes)

“Avengers: Age of Ultron” is a vast improvement upon its overrated predecessor, scaling down writer/director Joss Whedon’s self-indulgent dialogue in favor of more eye-poppingly explosive action sequences. Granted, we still get Whedon’s trademark repartee, but only enough of it to contribute to character development and add a little witty relief from all of the incessant excitement. It also feels much more like a multiverse movie, meaning its myriad of superheroes unite as one massive powerhouse instead of staying in their respective corners until being called upon like last time. The end result is exhausting and invigorating entertainment that rejuvenates the action figure-loving juvenile in all of us. (Thumbs Up!)

Coinciding with the release of “The Water Diviner,” Breakthrough Entertainment talks with real-life water diviner Greg Storozuk. “Breaking Bad” star RJ Mitte also gives a sneak peek at his appearance at Scottsdale’s HiFi nightclub and writer/director Jim Wilson discusses the DVD release of his horseracing drama “50 to 1” while “After the Ball,” “The Forger,” “See You in Valhalla” and “White God” are among the other films featured. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening/Halfway to Halloween Bar Crawl (Part 1)

Segment 2 – Review: “The Water Diviner”

Segment 3 – Interview: Water Diviner Greg Storozuk (Colorado Dowser)

Segment 4 – Interview: Actor/DJ RJ Mitte (“Breaking Bad”)

Segment 5 – Halfway to Halloween Bar Crawl (Part 2)/Banter with Bobby

Segment 6 – Reviews: “The Forger” and “White God”

Segment 7 – Reviews: “See You in Valhalla” and “After the Ball”

Segment 8 – Writer/Director Jim Wilson (“50 to 1”)

Segment 9 – Closing/”Avengers: Age of Ultron” Pre-Release Drama

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, April 24 are a modern-day fairytale set in the fashion industry, a historical drama directed by and starring Russell Crowe and an animal tale that takes viewers by surprise.

‘After the Ball’

Portia Doubleday plays a young fashion designer who runs afoul of her corrupt stepmother and stepsisters and dons a disguise to help save the family business for her father. (NR – 102 minutes)

Of all the cinematic attempts to update the story of “Cinderella” for current times and situations, “After the Ball” is one of the best. The new modern-day fairytale set in the fashion industry is delightfully entertaining, preserving the heart and soul of its source material while repackaging particular details to keep audiences actively engaged – genuinely agitated by Lauren Holly’s wicked stepmother and wholeheartedly rooting for Portia Doubleday’s likeable lead. The movie is mostly light and fluffy fun but it also emits admirably traditional values and features some intrinsically clever writing that yields as many laughs as it does authentic enchantment. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Forger’

John Travolta plays a second-generation petty thief who arranges to get out of prison to spend time with his ailing son (Tye Sheridan) by taking on a job forging a painting by Monet and stealing the original with his father (Christopher Plummer) to pay back the syndicate that arranged his release. (R – 92 minutes)

“The Forger” attempts to blend two genres with generally mixed results. As a heist thriller, it leaves a lot to be desired as it traces a well-worn formula, yielding predictability and therefore a bit of boredom. However, as a drama, it is rather involving, tugging on viewers’ heartstrings and earning their desire to see star John Travolta’s character succeed. The story’s greatest asset is its sincerity, which is why the feigned action feels so out of place. However, it remains entertaining and engaging through to the end in spite of its flaws and is worth watching if only for its surprising sentimentality. (Thumbs Up!)

‘See You in Valhalla’

Sarah Hyland plays a young woman who, after the bizarre death of her brother, returns home after 4 years to face her strange siblings, her out-of-touch father and her very touchy past. (R – 82 minutes)

Add the family depicted in “See You in Valhalla” to the list of those that make your own seem normal and peace-loving by comparison. The dysfunction on display in the new dramedy is at levels that may make moviegoers feel emotionally exhausted simply by observing it. However, that also makes it kind of cathartic, as secrets are revealed thereby unearthing relatable motives to each family member’s madness. Steve Howey, Bret Harrison and Emma Bell emerge as the movie’s most entertaining talents while star Sarah Hyland may need a bit more experience to shed her “Modern Family” skin as she seems awkwardly out of place here. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Water Diviner’

Russell Crowe plays an Australian man who travels to Turkey after the Battle of Gallipoli to try and locate his three missing sons. Olga Kurylenko and Jai Courtney also star. (R – 111 minutes)

“The Water Diviner” is a strong directorial debut for Russell Crowe and an even stronger acting achievement for him. Crowe delivers an emotionally powerful performance in the new historical drama as a resolute man who, carrying an awful lot of pain, has an uncanny connection with the land that begins with water but extends far beyond it. Doing double duty, Crowe takes viewers on an absorbing journey that is sure to resonate with parents while also managing to elicit a sophisticated love story. It all feels somewhat old fashioned – in the best possible sense of the term that makes the movie’s mildly magical elements believable. (Thumbs Up!)

‘White God’

Zsófia Psotta plays a young girl who is forced to give up her beloved dog because its mixed-breed heritage is deemed unfit by the State. The two then begin a dangerous journey back towards each other. (R – 117 minutes)

“White God” may very well take you by complete surprise. What starts out as an emotionally charging story about the abruptly broken bond between a young girl and her dog slowly grows into a dark depiction of man’s hideously inhumane treatment of animals. But before all is said and done, the movie shifts gears again and becomes something so unexpected that it is certain to divide viewers with the first faction loving its audaciousness and the other being appalled by it. Both will be blown away by the visual force of it, though, as well as its metaphorical significance. (Thumbs Up!)

Coinciding with the release of “Monkey Kingdom,” Breakthrough Entertainment celebrates Earth Day with environmental activist/filmmaker Veronica Grey. Singing impressionist Bob Anderson also discusses his new Frank Sinatra tribute show at The Palazzo Las Vegas and actor Christopher McDonald talks about his role in the new golf thriller “The Squeeze” while “Alex of Venice,” “Beyond the Reach” and “Monsters: Dark Continent” are among the other movies reviewed. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening

Segment 2 – Review: “Monkey Kingdom”

Segment 3 – Interview: Environmental Activist/Filmmaker Veronica Grey (“Worst Shark Attack Ever”)

Segment 4 – Reviews: “Alex of Venice” and “Monsters: Dark Continent”

Segment 5 – Interview: Singing Impressionist Bob Anderson (“Frank: The Man. The Music.”)

Segment 6 – Learning and Education Manager April Jackson (Arizona Theatre Company)

Segment 7 – Reviews: “Beyond the Reach” and “The Squeeze”

Segment 8 – Interview: Actor Christopher McDonald (“The Squeeze”)

Segment 9 – Closing

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, April 17 are a cat-and-mouse thriller starring Michael Douglas and Jeremy Irvine, a documentary about a bunch of monkeys and a golf thriller starring Christopher McDonald and Jeremy Sumpter.

‘Alex of Venice’

Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays a workaholic attorney who is forced to reinvent her life after her husband (Chris Messina) suddenly leaves. Now faced with the humdrum and sometimes catastrophic events that permeate the fabric of our lives, she discovers both a vulnerability and inner strength she had not yet tapped all while trying to hold together her broken family. (R – 86 minutes)

“Alex of Venice” is an admirable yet aimless movie. The new drama shifts its focus too frequently thereby causing the audience’s attention to drift and ultimately wane. If anyone would have been able to make this meandering material work it would have been star Mary Elizabeth Winstead but, while she is indeed as charismatic and identifiable as usual, the tale still proves to be too untidy. Perhaps that is the point, as it is a reflection of Winstead’s character’s life, but it remains too jumbled to enjoy. Having said that, Don Johnson’s character, performance and story steal the show. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Beyond the Reach’

Michael Douglas plays a high-rolling corporate shark who plays a most dangerous game with his impoverished young guide (Jeremy Irvine) during a hunting trip in the Mojave Desert. (R – 90 minutes)

“Beyond the Reach” chronicles one of the most electrifying games of cat-and-mouse in recent cinematic history. The new thriller draws viewers to the edge of their seats, gripping them and refusing to let go for the duration of what turns out to be one hell of a compelling ride. Michael Douglas commands the screen with a flawlessly merciless performance while Jeremy Irvine takes a beating in a very believable way. However, the true star of the film is its unrelenting intensity as it takes us on a trek through the desert that exhausts as much as it exhilarates. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Monkey Kingdom’

Filmmakers Mark Linfield and Alastair Fothergill follow the struggles of a newborn monkey and its mother as they struggle to survive within the competitive social hierarchy of the Temple Troop, a dynamic group of monkeys who live in ancient ruins found deep in the storied jungles of South Asia. (G – 81 minutes)

“Monkey Kingdom” is an incredibly cute documentary that is guaranteed to engage and enchant audiences of all ages. A pair of scenes that feature the monkeys in human-inhabited settings are especially delightful as is one in which they interact with a dog. However, while the amusement of seeing these silly monkeys monkey around is an indisputable highlight, the sweet story that plays out like one of Disney’s animated masterpieces – complete with memorable characters – is the true attraction. On the spectrum of DisneyNature’s documentaries to date, this achievement swings multiple loops around “Chimpanzee” but “African Cats” continues its reign as the series’ best. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Monsters: Dark Continent’

In the Middle East a new insurgency has begun. At the same time, there has also been a proliferation of monsters in that region. The army decides to draft in more numbers to help deal with this insurgency. (R – 116 minutes)

“Monsters: Dark Continent” is less a sequel than it is a cinematic cousin – a very distant, multiple times removed cinematic cousin – to the 2010 thriller that preceded it. And while the earlier effort blew audiences away with its fresh vision and earned that film’s writer/director Gareth Edwards a seat at the helm of “Godzilla,” writer/director Tom Green’s followup is a tired interpretation of the well-worn war genre. The fact that the fighting takes place on a continent overrun with monsters is simply a sidenote, adding nothing but artistic anecdotes that aggravate more than they stimulate. (Thumbs Down!)

‘The Squeeze’

Christopher McDonald plays a notorious gambler who discovers a modest young man (Jeremy Sumpter) in a small rural town with uncommon golf skills. Seeing his potential, the gambler convinces him to abandon his dreams of winning the U.S. Open and start playing in matches where the stakes grow higher and higher until the game becomes life or death. (PG-13 – 95 minutes)

“The Squeeze” could somewhat accurately be described as a golf thriller. Granted, that may sound like an oxymoron but believe it or not writer/director Terry Jastrow has actually found a way to make one of the most sleep-inducing sports genuinely exciting. The new film is still far from a hole-in-one as its story lands in a few sandtraps around the midway point that slow down the movie’s otherwise monopolizing momentum. However, the experience remains extremely engaging as it draws viewers in with an enthusiastic approach to the game and keeps them hooked with some surprisingly suspenseful scenes. (Thumbs Up!)

Coinciding with the release of “Backcountry,” “Breakthrough Entertainment” speaks with that film’s writer/director Adam MacDonald and North American Bear Center Founder Dr. Lynn Rogers. In addition, writer/director Maggie Kiley discusses her new dramedy “Dial a Prayer,” actor Paul David Story dishes on his role as Romeo in Arizona Theatre Company’s  production of “Romeo and Juliet” at the Herberger Theater, author Shari Rigby talks about her new book “Beautifully Flawed” and comedian Taylor Williamson previews his performances at the Tempe Improv. (Download MP3)

Segment 1 – Opening

Segment 2 – Interview: Writer/Director Adam MacDonald (“Backcountry”)

Segment 3 – Interview: Wildlife Biologist Dr. Lynn Rogers (North American Bear Center)

Segment 4 – Interview: Writer/Director Maggie Kiley (“Dial a Prayer”)

Segment 5 – Review: “5 to 7”

Segment 6 – Interview: Actor Paul David Story (“Romeo and Juliet”)

Segment 7 – Interview: Author Shari Rigby (“Beautifully Flawed”)

Segment 8 – Interview: Comedian Taylor Williamson (“America’s Got Talent”)

Segment 9 – Closing

Full Show (Segments 1-9)

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Among the new movies that were released Friday, April 10 are a romantic dramedy about a relationship with a catch, a thriller about a being lost in the woods with a bear and a dramedy set at a prayer call center.

‘5 to 7’

Anton Yelchin plays an aspiring novelist enters into a relationship with a woman (Bérénice Marlohe) with just one catch – she’s married and the couple can only meet between the hours of 5 and 7 each evening. Olivia Thirlby, Glenn Close, Lambert Wilson and Frank Langella also star. (R – 95 minutes)

The premise of “5 to 7” is simply too adolescent to carry much significance. Granted, it may work for a project played solely for laughs but writer/director Victor Levin attempts to extract true meaning from it and fails to do so in even the slightest fashion. Instead, the new romantic dramedy comes off as a chauvinistic male’s fantasy that slowly but surely warps into some sad-sack story someone would tell about the childhood crush they had on their babysitter. Its refined and mature atmosphere is not only a deception; it also nullifies what little entertainment value the motion picture possesses. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Backcountry’

Missy Peregrym and Jeff Ropop play a young couple whose romantic camping trip becomes a tale of survival as they face the darkest side of nature – a predatory black bear. (NR – 92 minutes)

“Backcountry” will do for camping what “Frozen” did for skiing, transmitting trepidation into even the bravest backpacker. The new thriller starts off slowly with writer/director Adam MacDonald using everything from intimidating strangers to the vast setting itself to create a tension that could seemingly snap at any given moment. And snap it eventually does in such a way that is guaranteed to give you nightmares. MacDonald skillfully uses the ultimate trifecta of suspense, surprise and gruesomely graphic imagery to unnerve viewers beyond belief and leave one hell of a lasting impact on their psyches. Moreover, star Missy Peregrym’s performance is electrifying. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Dial a Prayer’

Brittany Snow plays a disenchanted young woman who begrudgingly answers phones at a prayer call center under the watchful direction of its religious leader (William H. Macy). With the discovery of her newfound gift, she struggles to reconcile her troubled past and grapples with the faith that others have started to show in her. (PG-13 – 97 minutes)

Due to its title, “Dial a Prayer” may sound like your run-of-the-mill faith-based flick but it is far more cynical than that conservative genre typically likes to be and, by refusing to play by the rules, it is also far more effective. Writer/director Maggie Kiley’s new dramedy achieves a spiritual significance that is universally palatable as its protagonist finds not religion but harmony with herself. Kiley carefully walks the line, serving up satirical comedy that is funny without offending and star Brittany Snow portrays her desperate and at wits’ end character with an authenticity that strengthens the influence of her eventual redemption. (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, April 3 are a costumed drama written by and starring Emma Thompson, the action-packed swan-song of late actor Paul Walker and a cross-generational dramedy written and directed by Noah Baumbach.

‘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!)

‘Effie Gray’

Dakota Fanning plays a young woman who, through a marriage to a much older man (Greg Wise), comes of age and finds her own voice in a world where women were expected to be seen but not heard. Emma Thompson also stars. (PG-13 – 108 minutes)

“Effie Gray” paints a dreary picture using the dullest colors imaginable – but that approach is actually appropriate and therefore effective in achieving the intended impression. Director Richard Laxton mirrors the movie’s refined atmosphere when handling some strikingly dramatic revelations that come about as part of the new costumed drama’s plot thereby removing any and all romance while illuminating the stiff suffering experienced by its characters. Stars Emma Thompson (who wrote the screenplay) and Dakota Fanning portray said characters with sheer elegance and manage to say something significant about early feminism without needing any particularly powerful crescendos. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Electric Slide’

Jim Sturgess plays a hip and charismatic dealer of antique furniture for the rich and famous who, to pay off the debts he owes loan sharks, begins a spree of bank robberies across 1983 Los Angeles with his cool and aloof girlfriend (Isabelle Lucas). Patricia Arquette and Chloë Sevigny also star. (R – 95 minutes)

“Electric Slide” is an exceptionally cool motion picture. In fact, the film is so deliberately stylish that it initially alienates viewers who may be put off by its inherent smugness. However, those who are patient will soon discover that there is a rhyme and a reason to said swagger as it charms them just as star Jim Sturgess’s character charms female bank tellers. As a result, we feel immersed in the movie’s atmosphere and captivated by its story, which winds up featuring a few sincerely suspenseful moments that are made even more entertaining thanks to the eccentricity of it all. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Furious 7’

Jason Statham plays a man who seeks revenge against Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker) for crippling his brother (Luke Evans). Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, Dwayne Johnson and Kurt Russell also star. (PG-13 – 140 minutes)

“Furious 7” somehow beats the odds and ups the ante yet again, delivering a few action sequences that drive circles around those that blew us away in the film franchise’s six previous installments. The latest entry also fixes the pacing problems that plagued its two predecessors, cutting back on the melodrama and simply serving up extreme excitement in the form of vehicular implausibility. Most importantly, though, it features a finale that is as fitting as it is touching, treating the real-life loss of star Paul Walker in such a way that will guarantee tears but also some surprisingly universal spiritual comfort. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Kumiko: The Treasure Hunter’

Rinko Kikuchi plays a young woman who mistakes the film “Fargo” for a documentary and fixates on the scene where a suitcase of stolen cash is buried in the desolate North Dakota landscape. Believing this treasure to be real, she leaves Tokyo behind to recover it and finds herself on a dangerous adventure unlike anything she has seen in the movies. (NR – 105 minutes)

“Kumiko: The Treasure Hunter” has the unfortunate distinction of being a better idea than it is a movie. Perhaps filmmakers David and Nathan Zellner were far too smitten with their admittedly very clever concept to remember that they also had to develop an engaging story to surround it. The new drama starts off slow and never picks up any steam, restricting its protagonist to two brief pit stops on its way to an frustratingly underwhelming conclusion rather than truly embracing the plot’s potential for peculiarity. There are certainly moments of ingenuity but the bigger picture is a bit too ambiguous to sincerely satisfy. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Like Sunday, Like Rain’

Leighton Meester plays a young woman who, estranged from family, having slacker boyfriend troubles and fired from her waitressing job, takes a job as a nanny of a 12-year-old cello prodigy (Julian Shatkin) who, surrounded by wealth and living with abundant resources in Manhattan, lives a solitary life lacking only frequently absent parents and friends. (R – 104 minutes)

“Like Sunday, Like Rain” starts strong but slowly devolves into a snooze-fest of a film. In fact, its nearly dialogue-free finale that comes complete with lullaby-like music is almost certain to send you into dreamland. Fortunately, you will not be missing much as writer/director Frank Whaley is unable to conclude his tale in such a way that is satisfying or even possesses much of a point – which is a shame considering the flick’s first half is intriguing albeit a bit weird thanks to a nerve-gratingly precocious protagonist. Its weakest link, however, is Billie Joe Armstrong who would be well advised to stick with singing and avoid any additional acting opportunities. (Thumbs Down!)

‘While We’re Young’

Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts play a middle-aged couple whose career and marriage are overturned when a disarming young couple (Adam Driver and Amanda Seyfried) enters their lives. (R – 94 minutes)

“While We’re Young” may have worked a lot better as a sitcom than it does as a feature film. After all, sitcoms can get away with possessing very little plot and throwing occasionally amusing jokes around aimlessly whereas such frivolity is often frowned upon in feature films. On the other hand, being boring is frowned upon in sitcoms so even that medium may have been a bust. Regardless, writer/director Noah Baumbach’s new cross-generational dramedy is a wannabe-hip disaster that flounders around before eventually coming to a close without any climax whatsoever. Worst of all, it is emotionally empty and utterly unrelatable. (Thumbs Down!)

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with director/producer Adam Collis and co-producer David Breschel about their upcoming comedy “Car Dogs,” in which Patrick J. Adams plays the sales manager at a car dealership who has a chance to get his own dealership – and out from under the thumb of his vicious, overbearing father (Chris Mulkey) – by selling 35 cars in a single day. George Lopez, Nia Vardalos, Josh Hopkins and Octavia Spencer also star.

“Car Dogs” takes us behind the scenes of a fictional car dealership to witness all of the anarchic action that takes place between the handshakes. The result is riveting, humorous and even somewhat stirring as its story unearths universal anxieties and frustrations people experience while trying to get to a point at which they can actually make a difference. The vibrant cast of characters is the true highlight, however, injecting a dose of dynamic energy into the tale. George Lopez impresses with an unexpectedly versatile performance while Nia Vardalos exudes an enigmatic likeability and Josh Hopkins steals the show, ingeniously depicting his character’s wildly amusing misbehavior. (Thumbs Up!)

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with actress Brittany Curran about her role in the upcoming horror flick “Exeter,” in which she plays one of several teenagers who accidentally release an evil spirit that starts to possess them one by one.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with filmmakers Frank Ferendo and Jordan Horowitz about their Phoenix Film Festival selection “Angel of Nanjing,” in which they document the efforts of Chen Si, a man who patrols the Yangtze River Bridge in Nanjing – the most popular place in the world to commit suicide – and is responsible for saving the lives of more than 300 people.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with filmmaker Gorman Bechard about his Phoenix Film Festival selection “A Dog Named Gucci,” in which he chronicles the story of a puppy that was set on fire, the man who rescued him and the laws against animal abuse their crossroads created.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with producer Phil Hessler about his Phoenix Film Festival selection “Far from Home,” in which filmmaker Galen Knowles chronicles Uganda-born Brolin Mawejje’s journey to become Africa’s first Olympic snowboarder as well as a doctor with dreams of building a hospital in his country’s capital.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with writer/director Liz Manashil and actress Christine Weatherup about their Phoenix Film Festival selection “Bread and Butter,” in which Christine plays an endearing misfit who, on the brink of turning 30, searches for signs to show her how to deal with her obsessive parents, her eccentric boss and her virginity.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with writer/director Khalil Sullins and producer Pardis Sullins about their Phoenix Film Festival selection “Listening,” in which a team of genius-but-broke grad students invent mind-reading technology that destroys their lives and threatens the future of free-will itself.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with Phoenix Film Festival alumnus Jill D’Agnenica (“Life Inside Out”) about her role as moderator for a seminar panel on women in filmmaking.

Breakthrough Entertainment speaks with Phoenix Film Festival alumnus Paul Osborne (“Favor”) about his role as moderator for a seminar panel on screenwriting.

Among the new movies that were released Friday, March 27 are a mockumentary about bullying, an animated adventure about aliens and a drama that re-pairs “Silver Linings Playbook” stars Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence.

‘The Barber’

Chris Coy plays a young man who, 20 years after his police detective father takes his life over the despair of his inability to solve a serial killer case, sets out to bring said case to resolution in a completely unexpected manner. Scott Glenn also stars. (R – 95 minutes)

If “The Barber” were to be judged on star Scott Glenn’s performance alone, one would have no choice but to recommend rushing out to see it. The veteran actor indeed does a wonderful job with a provocative role. Thanks to Glenn’s ingenuity, you never quite know what to think of his character but you do know he makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up straight. Unfortunately, the story is chock-full of cliches and – while suspenseful at first – it eventually veers into a predictable conclusion that is made even worse by way too much dialogue. (Thumbs Down!)

‘A Girl Like Her’

Lexi Ainsworth plays a teenager who is victimized and bullied by her former friend (Hunter King). With the help of her best friend (Jimmy Bennett) and a hidden digital camera, evidence of the relentless harassment threatens to come to light bringing both girls and their communities face to face with the truth. (PG-13 – 92 minutes)

“A Girl Like Her” is an admirable yet ultimately unfulfilling feature film. The new fictional drama, which was filmed to look like a documentary, certainly has a strong moral conscience as it tackles the bullying issue from both sides in a way that feels fairly authentic but it far more resembles a predictable after-school special than that it does satiating entertainment. It may be unfair to the movie’s valuable motivations but the viewer keeps waiting for a shocking twist of some sort. Instead, they get a mildly enlightening lesson from a perceptive perspective. Unfortunately, it goes down more like cinematic medicine than something sincerely satisfying. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Home’

Jim Parsons voices a lovable misfit from another planet who lands on Earth and finds himself on the run from his own people. He forms an unlikely friendship with an adventurous girl (Rihanna) who is on a quest of her own. (PG – 93 minutes)

“Home” may be one of the most imaginatively colorful animated adventures released in recent years. Its bright visuals and incessant energy keep audience members of any and all ages amused and therefore less likely to be bothered by the fact that the film feels ephemeral. The story is heartfelt enough, evoking key emotions while also reflecting respectable morals, yet it still cannot escape an overwhelming sense of frivolity. Then again, cheerful tomfoolery has its benefits – especially when it is conveyed through a script as witty as this not to mention delivered by characters as charming as these. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Nightlight’

Undeterred by the news of a classmate who recently took his life in those woods, five teens journey into the forest for an evening of flashlight games and ghost stories. But their plans go awry when the friends awaken a demonic presence, an unseen evil that will seize upon their deepest fears – and plunge them into a nightmare of absolute terror. (R – 84 minutes)

The novelty of “Nightlight” is initially intriguing as the new found-footage flick’s characters play dangerous games that are not unlike those played by real half-witted teenagers. And you have got to admit that writers/directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods take impressively full advantage of the genre’s various ingenuities, making for a creative visual experience. But novelty has a way of wearing off quite quickly, especially in an atmosphere that is absent of any story. So, soon, the thriller becomes nothing more than noise as its irritatingly unintelligent teens scream in the dark. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Serena’

Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence play lovestruck newlyweds who, in 1920s North Carolina, begin to build a timber empire. With power and influence in their hands, they refuse to let anyone stand in the way of their inflated love and ambitions. (R – 109 minutes)

It is difficult to look away from “Serena” and even more difficult to dislike it. After all, it re-pairs “Silver Linings Playbook” and “American Hustle” stars Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence – both of whom give great performances despite the new historical drama’s many shortcomings. However, simply watching and actually enjoying are two drastically different things as the plot’s pace limps along and lacks anything of notable significance to say thereby leaving viewers listless and ultimately unmoved. Still, the two stars are not the only good-looking aspects of the movie as its setting and cinematography are continuously engrossing. (Thumbs Down!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, March 20 are a comedy in which Jessica Biel plays a woman gets a nail lodged into her head, an actioner in which Taylor Lautner leaps off ledges of buildings and a comedic horror flick in which a group of college kids come face to face with zombeavers.

‘Accidental Love’

Jessica Biel plays a small town waitress whose life is turned upside down when a freak accident leaves a nail lodged in her head, causing erratic – and erotic – behavior. After her fiance (James Marsden) calls off their engagement, she sets off in search of a cure and falls into the arms of a sexy senator (Jake Gyllenhaal) who champions her cause. (PG-13 – 100 minutes)

I liked “Accidental Love” better when it was called “Nailed.” No, that is not some quip comparing the new comedy to another movie of which it is supposedly a watered down version. It is indeed a watered down version but of a movie that will, tragically, never see the light of day. Having sat on the shelf for more than 5 years and basically abandoned by director David O. Russell before a key scene was even in the can, the bastardized end-result released to the public is a patchwork of insipidness. Storm clouds of stupidity occasionally make way for moments of creative inspiration, suggesting that this could have been – if properly completed – a quick-witted flick of which its shockingly talented cast were not severely ashamed. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Spring’

Lou Taylor Pucci plays a young man who, in a personal tailspin, flees the U.S. to Italy, where he sparks up a romance with a woman (Nadia Hilker) harboring a dark, primordial secret. (NR – 109 minutes)

“Spring” promises romantic horror but, unfortunately, it is far more interested in exhibiting the romantic half of that equation than the horror half of it. Granted, the Italian settings are awe-inspiring but most moviegoers will not likely be looking for a travelogue when purchasing a ticket to see this flick. Moreover, star Lou Taylor Pucci gives a commendable performance, per usual, however a plodding pace makes it increasingly difficult to remain interested in the story – even when it gets to the juicy stuff, which is less the stuff of nightmares than it is the stuff of a freakish romance novel. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Tracers’

Taylor Lautner plays a bike messenger who, hoping to alleviate his deepening debt to a violent crime gang, joins a team that uses parkour to pull off heists. He must use every ounce of his skill to stay alive as the crew’s heists grow more daring with each job and gang enforcers breathe relentlessly down his neck. (PG-13 – 90 minutes)

The kinetic energy that is exuded by “Tracers” is certain to get your heart not only racing but climbing, swinging, mantling, vaulting, jumping, rolling… you get the idea. The new actioner provides plenty of parkour excitement and seems to have been tailor-made for star Taylor Lautner, whose animalistic movements make for some stunning chase sequences. Having said that, the plot is relatively routine as it sets up a scenario we have seen time and time again and traverses to a pretty predictable ending. But even the easily foreseeable finale is fun thanks to several stunts that will likely leave you on the edge of your seat. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Walking Deceased’

Dave Sheridan plays a small town sheriff who joins a motley crew of survivors as they weather confrontations with zombies, meet up and then leave their tattered camp – a partially destroyed shopping mall. (R – 98 minutes)

Believe it or not, “The Walking Deceased” is not as bad as it looks. Then again, that is pretty much the extent of the praise of which the new feature-length spoof deserves as you are likely to have way more fun Zombie LARPing with your friends than watching what is essentially a “Saturday Night Live” skit stretched to the point of humor depletion. Granted, the cast of unknowns achieves about as much amusement as the so-called celebrities that populate parodies like “Scary Movie” and “A Haunted House” do, but that is a laughably low bar for which to reach. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Wild Tales’

Vulnerable in the face of a reality that shifts and suddenly turns unpredictable, several different people cross the thin line that divides civilization and barbarism. A lover’s betrayal, a return to the repressed past and the violence woven into everyday encounters drive them to madness as they cede to the undeniable pleasure of losing control. (R – 122 minutes)

“Wild Tales” is not only the most entertaining foreign-language film of the year, it is also the best – two qualitative factors that rarely align. Spanning six different yet equally peculiar parables, the new Argentinian import is an exceptionally clever and wonderfully wicked anthology about losing control. Its dark energy and depraved enthusiasm are infectious as each short twists, turns, intrigues, thrills, shocks and incites fits of laughter. Each one is enjoyable in its own right, with a story about road rage taking the prize for best (or at least most debased) in show, but together they weave one devilishly delightful feature film. (Breakthrough!)

‘Zombeavers’

Rachel Melvin, Cortney Palm and Lexi Atkins play college girls whose weekend getaway at a remote cabin is quickly jeopardized by a hungry bear, a menacing hunter, their own party-crashing boyfriends and a horde of bloodthirsty, zombified beavers. (R – 85 minutes)

“Zombeavers” is every bit as fun as its title suggests, succeeding on both comedic and horrifying levels. The new genre-bender simultaneously goes for the jugular and the funny bone with its razor-sharp teeth… I mean wit, delivering the kind of unapologetically asinine amusement that will having you rolling in the aisle before hiding beneath your seat. Sure it is all a bit silly but it is also surprisingly effective as a legitimate horror flick. And do not worry, the film features more than its fair share of quintessential beaver jokes – such as, “Why did the beaver cross the road?” (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, March 13 are a drama set on the streets of Belfast in 1971, a live-action adaptation of Disney’s most beloved fairy tale of all time and a modern-day fable about walking in someone else’s shoes – literally.

‘‘71’

Jack O’Connell plays a young British soldier who is accidentally abandoned by his unit following a riot on the streets of Belfast in 1971. Unable to tell friend from foe and increasingly wary of his own comrades, he must survive the night alone and find his way to safety through a disorientating, alien and deadly landscape. (R – 100 minutes)

Much like star Jack O’Connell’s pre-”Unbroken” film “Starred Up,” “‘71” features accents that are so thick that they make it nearly impossible to understand what is being said. However, that is the least of the new drama’s problems as it also suffers from shaky camera movement, an underdeveloped protagonist and a meandering midsection. Worst of all, though, is the fact that the film never takes a moment to draw viewers into the conflict, instead resigning them to the role of detached observers. It is therefore easy to become bored with a story that, on its surface, sounds quite compelling. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Cinderella’

Lily James plays a young woman who finds herself at the mercy of her cruel stepmother and stepsisters when her father unexpectedly passes away. Never one to give up hope, her fortunes begin to change after meeting a dashing stranger in the woods. (PG – 105 minutes)

“Cinderella” may be the most faithful live-action adaptation of an animated film from Disney’s vault to date, capturing all of the magic of the 1950 classic without losing even one ounce of its wonder. Moreover, the new movie also authentically imitates the golden era of cinema with its old fashioned look and comforting feel – especially during the scene set at the ball. Its colors alone are beyond breathtaking. Best of all, this may be the most beautifully romantic motion picture you see all year, stealing the hearts and igniting the dreams of audiences of absolutely all ages. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Cobbler’

Adam Sandler plays a cobbler who stumbles upon a magical heirloom that allows him to step into the lives of his customers and see the world in a new way. Sometimes walking in another man’s shoes is the only way one can discover who they really are. (PG-13 – 99 minutes)

“The Cobbler” operates on a fantastical premise that is quite a common idiom and it is therefore surprising that it has not been actualized on the big screen until now. And although the end-result may not be as sharp as said premise’s promise and eventually veers off into a slightly disappointing direction, it is entertaining enough while also offering a fair amount of the quintessential heart one expects from a fairy tale. Star Adam Sandler is uncharacteristically-yet-welcomingly restrained in the new comedy from writer/director Thomas McCarthy, who continues his streak of making movies that are as meaningful as they are fun. (Thumbs Up!)

Breakthrough Interviews: Actor Method Man (‘The Cobbler’)

‘Cymbeline’

Ethan Hawke, Ed Harris, Milla Jovovich, John Leguizamo and Dakota Johnson star in a story of a take-no-prisoners war between dirty cops and a drug-dealing biker gang. When extortion, betrayal, and fiery passions threaten his criminal empire, a drug kingpin is driven to desperate measures. (R – 85 minutes)

For the first few minutes, “Cymbeline’s” application of William Shakespeare’s classic prose in modern-day circumstances is somewhat amusing – albeit in the wrong way that renders it almost comical. Then once you realize there is some pretty serious stuff going down, the material is momentarily compelling. But try as they might, even these tremendously talented actors cannot retain a viewer’s interest in an extremely plot-heavy and confusingly muddled movie that is made worse by an antiquated language’s tendency to continuously pull them in polar opposite directions. Translation: The ear of thy work doth produce a sense of beauty but tis only skin deep much to the perplexion of thine mind. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Everly’

Salma Hayek plays a woman who faces down assassins sent by her ex – a mob boss – while holed up in her apartment. (R – 92 minutes)

“Everly” is probably what you would get if you locked Uma Thurman’s character from “Kill Bill” in an apartment for a few hours. Director Joe Lynch’s new actioner may be a bit low on brain-cells, but it has got more adrenaline pumping through its veins than the entire cast of “The Expendables.” As a result, the movie becomes a grindhouse throwback that will continuously draw you to the edge of your seat and blow you back into it over and over again. What the flick lacks in narrative craft it more than makes up for in kinetic creativity. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Salvation’

Mads Mikkelsen plays a Danish ex-soldier who, after laying waste to the scoundrels who killed his wife and son, incurs the wrath of a sadistic gang leader (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) hell-bent on hunting him down. (R – 100 minutes)

“The Salvation” will whet the appetite of western fans who know the movie marketplace has become a barren desert when it comes to the genre. Boasting beautiful cinematography that will leave you absolutely breathless, a riveting and almost dialogue-free finale and strong performances across the board from stars Mads Mikkelsen, Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Eva Green, the new drama is a quick-draw and hits its target. The story is somewhat simple as it checks off just about every box on the list of elements essential to the genre but when it comes to westerns, familiarity is fundamental. And there could be no greater compliment than to say this feels more like a time-honored favorite than modern mockery. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Treading Water’

Douglas Smith plays a boy who is forced to face life with a rare condition that leaves him smelling like a fish. With his strange ailment, he sadly grows to accept that he may never find happiness – until he meets a girl (Zoë Kravitz) who seems to not notice his unique odor and wants to be his friend. (NR – 98 minutes)

Brimming with creative quirkiness in its every nook and cranny, “Treading Water” is an exceptionally entertaining modern-day fairy tale. More importantly, though, it is also genuinely charming, spreading smiles across the faces and instilling hope in the hearts of any and all viewers who may be embarrassed by their own oddities (which, if we’re being honest, is everyone on this entire earth). Although writer/director Analeine Cal y Mayor’s story is based on a real affliction, her rapturously magical approach is what truly brings the new dramedy to life and makes this bait well worth biting. (Breakthrough!)

Actor Clifford “Method Man” Smith speaks with Breakthrough Entertainment about his role in the new dramedy “The Cobbler,” in which Adam Sandler plays a cobbler who stumbles upon a magical heirloom that allows him to step into the lives of his customers and see the world in a new way. Sometimes walking in another man’s shoes is the only way one can discover who they really are.

Among the new movies that were released Friday, March 6 are a sci-fi actioner about a titanium gangsta’, a dramatic thriller about mind control and a comedy about a routine business trip that goes off the rails.

‘Bad Asses on the Bayou’

Danny Trejo and Danny Glover reprise their roles as seniors who, this time, travel to Louisiana to attend the wedding of their friend (Loni Love). However, when she is kidnapped, they bring a bit of their viral vigilantism to the Bayou. (R – 85 minutes)

“Bad Asses on the Bayou,” the second sequel to 2012’s “Bad Ass,” is merely more of the same albeit in a different setting. And, frankly, that is enough. Much like its two predecessors, the new actioner is a check-your-brain-at-the-door affair that is only interested in entertaining its viewers. If assessed solely on that aim, the movie more than hits its target as stars Danny Trejo and Danny Glover dole out clever quips and plenty of punches to unsavory characters who are half their age. It is shamefully predictable and a final quarter shootout sequence set to rap music will encourage a lot of eye rolling, but you’ll still be grinnin’ like a possum eatin’ a sweet tater. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Chappie’

In the near future, crime is patrolled by an oppressive mechanized police force. When one police droid is stolen and given new programming, he becomes the first robot with the ability to think and feel for himself. (R – 114 minutes)

“Chappie” is as intellectually stimulating as it is materially entertaining. Thanks to a wonderfully charming title character, the new science-fiction flick will appeal to audiences far beyond the genre’s immediate fans. But that is not to say that it shies away from presenting a plethora of thought-provoking ideas. In fact, writer/director Neill Blomkamp’s new film dives deep into the conversation of consciousness, except it does so in a groundedly human way fueled by genuine emotion. Blomkamp’s trademark landscapes, an underlying sense of humor and some spectacularly special-effects-driven action sequence only further cement the movie’s achievement on multiple levels. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Faults’

Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays a woman who is under the grip of a mysterious new cult. Desperate to be reunited with their daughter, her parents recruit one of the world’s foremost experts on mind control (Leland Orser). (NR – 89 minutes)

“Faults” is a magnetic movie thanks to its intriguing narrative about mind control but made even more so as a result of the peculiar performances of its two leads Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Leland Orser. Both of the dramatic thriller’s new stars have remarkable range that they exhibit over the course of the increasingly stimulating story. It hooks viewers early on with an oddballish and black sense of humor and keeps them captive throughout the unfolding of its many mysteries. It is a testament to the talent of not only writer/director Riley Stearns but also Winstead and Orser that such an intricately complex parable works this well. (Thumbs Up!)

‘Kidnapping Mr. Heineken’

Sam Worthington and Jim Sturgess play childhood friends who, in 1983, pull off the crime of the century – kidnapping one of the richest men in the world, the heir of the Heineken beer empire (Anthony Hopkins), resulting in the largest ransom ever paid for an individual. (R – 95 minutes)

In order to enjoy “Kidnapping Mr. Heineken,” you may have to pair it with a six-pack. That way, you will either be too buzzed to notice the new crime drama’s lack of electricity or have an excuse for why you fell asleep mid-movie. It is quite an accomplishment for a film that recounts the planning, execution and aftermath of a real kidnapping to bore its viewers – especially one with a cast that includes Sam Worthington, Jim Sturgess and Anthony Hopkins – but director Daniel Alfredson’s project manages to do precisely that. However, Hopkins does give quite a captivating performance in the motion picture. (Thumbs Down!)

‘These Final Hours’

Nathan Phillips plays a troubled man who, desperate to join his girlfriend at the “party to end all parties” and numb any feelings as the world comes to an end, saves the life of a young girl (Angourie Rice) frantically searching for her father. Together they discover how they would truly like to spend their last moments on Earth in this world gone mad. (NR – 86 minutes)

The end of the world appears to be all the rage these days. At least it is when it comes to the entertainment industry. So, in order to stand out from the crowd, an apocalyptic drama has got to do something truly original. Unfortunately, while “These Final Hours” accomplishes an impressive feat on a meager budget, it simply is too much of the same and, as a result, is swallowed up by its bigger-budgeted brethren. It asks some provocative questions and it is artistically sound as an independent film but the world that it is ending is generic and ultimately uninteresting. (Thumbs Down!)

‘Unfinished Business’

Vince Vaughn plays a hard-working small business owner who travels to Europe with his two associates (Tom Wilkinson and Dave Franco) to close the most important deal of their lives. But what began as a routine business trip goes off the rails in every imaginable – and unimaginable – way, including unplanned stops at a massive sex fetish event and a global economic summit. (R – 90 minutes)

“Unfinished Business” feels a bit, well, unfinished – both as a whole and in individual parts. That is to say that some scenes fall flat and feel incomplete while the entire film lacks an existential rationale. The story is thin and the entire project appears to exist solely as a vehicle to deliver its gags. Fortunately, most – although not all – of said gags work, leaving viewers in stitches every step of the way and sufficiently distracting them to the new comedy’s eventual emptiness. Dave Franco steals the show with an emperlatine performance that is simply flügelschlagen. (Thumbs Up!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Feb. 27 are an ensemble drama from director David Cronenberg, a Columbia-based thriller starring Julia Stiles and Scott Speedman and a mockumentary about vampires.

‘Maps to the Stars’

Julianne Moore, Mia Wasikowska, John Cusack and Robert Pattinson play people chasing celebrity, one another and the ghosts of their pasts. (R – 112 minutes)

Director David Cronenberg continues his streak of making the absolute worst movies imaginable with “Maps to the Stars.” The new ensemble drama is a disgusting piece of cinematic bile, consisting of little more than distasteful dialogue and sickening situations – none of which adds up to anything even remotely coherent much less meaningful. Besides wasting the audience’s time, Cronenberg also wastes a great deal of talent here, reducing Julianne Moore to something akin to a whiny toddler and pigeon-holing Robert Pattinson into the same soulless character he played in the filmmaker’s previous catastrophe “Cosmopolis.” (Thumbs Down!)

‘Out of the Dark’

Julia Stiles and Scott Speedman play parents whose new life in Columbia turns from promising to terrifying when they are forced to confront ancient legends, ghosts and a haunting family secret. (R – 92 minutes)

“Out of the Dark” gets points for at least doing something different than most horror flicks that are released nowadays but that still is not enough to make the experience worth attempting to endure. Granted, the new thriller has got a handful of sufficient startles but even the best jump-scare only gets you so far – especially when the story is as slow-moving as this. Stars Julia Stiles and Scott Speedman’s emotional performances suggest they believe – or at least want to believe – they are in a better motion picture but, unfortunately, there really are not enough chills here to sustain a viewer’s interest. (Thumbs Down!)

‘What We Do in the Shadows’

Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi, Jonathan Brugh and Ben Fransham play vampire roommates trying to get by in a modern world that’s not always hospitable to the undead. (NR – 86 minutes)

There is really very little satirical bite to “What We Do in the Shadows,” making for a movie that may be momentarily amusing but ultimately not something into which audiences can really sink their teeth. Granted, Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi’s new comedy is not to be taken too seriously but one would think that the “Flight of the Conchords” duo would have been able to come up with jokes that aim a bit higher than the junior high crowd. Making matters worse, Ben Fransham’s character – who is a dead-ringer for Nosferatu – is criminally underused, hidden in the shadows while the film’s far campier elements reminiscent of an over-the-top “Saturday Night Live” skit get the spotlight. (Thumbs Down!)

Among the new movies that were released Friday, Feb. 20 are a teen comedy starring Mae Whitman, a musical starring Anna Kendrick and a family sports drama starring Kevin Costner.

‘The DUFF’

Mae Whitman plays a content high school senior whose world is shattered when she learns the student body knows her as the Designated Ugly Fat Friend to her prettier, more popular friends. She enlists a slick but charming jock (Robbie Amell) to help reinvent herself and overthrow the school’s ruthless label maker (Bella Thorne). (PG-13 – 101 minutes)

In a world occupied by stronger and more universally appealing teen comedies, “The DUFF” would barely pass muster. However, genre anchors “She’s All That” and “10 Things I Hate About You” were introduced more than 15 years ago and it has been almost five years since the release of the last solid entry – “Easy A.” So, all things considered, the new movie is an adequate although unremarkable effort that will probably please middle and high schoolers a great deal while being passably entertaining to everyone else. It certainly suffers from an identity crisis, though, sometimes cynically superficial and other times explicitly preachy. (Thumbs Up!)

‘The Last Five Years’

Jeremy Jordan plays a talented young Jewish novelist who falls in love with a Shiksa Goddess and struggling actress (Anna Kendrick). Their love story is told almost entirely through song. (PG-13 – 94 minutes)

“The Last Five Years” effectively captures the highs and lows of a relationship in such a way that simultaneously inspires viewers and pulls on their heartstrings. Writer/director Richard LaGravenese’s cinematic adaptation of Jason Robert Brown’s musical stage play may require a bit more effort from its audience as they attempt to wrap their minds around the story’s dueling perspectives and chronologies, but the emotionally-charged rewards are remarkable. As are the songs, which are meticulously complex yet infectiously catchy. And then there are the film’s stars Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan, who are as charismatic as their performances are captivating. (Thumbs Up!)

‘McFarland, USA’

Kevin Costner portrays a high school cross country coach in a small, economically challenged California community who transforms a team of athletes into championship contenders. (PG – 129 minutes)

“McFarland, USA” may trip up a few places along the way but, fortunately, those minor mistakes do not affect its ability to cross the finish line as a heartwarming winner. Disney’s new cross country sports drama, which is based on a true story, runs along a path that certainly often used by the genre. Director Niki Caro does not really take any risks but she does not need to as the experience is enjoyable enough and the end-result is emotionally energizing. It could have benefited from a quintessential match montage as the runners seem to climb a sudden 90-degree-angled hill but that does not affect the film’s capacity to inspire. (Thumbs Up!)

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