We are only three weeks into January and here are some reviews of what movies are streaming
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (NETFLIX 2025)
I'll confess that I have a fondness for W&G because The Curse of the Were-Rabbit was immensely popular in our household when the girls were young. That film was played repeatedly because it entertained them and had enough subtle adult humor to keep us engaged. This is to say that my affection for a new W&G movie is influenced by nostalgia. At the same time, I don't think it captured all the magic of Were-Rabbit; Nick Park and Steve Box certainly know how to create an enjoyable experience with our beloved stop-motion characters. It's truly delightful to see the kind of emotion and personality they can express with two of the quietest characters in the movie: Gromit & penguin bad guy, Feathers McGraw. However, despite the familiar cheerfulness, the movie does tend to drag in some places and includes several dull moments due to the emphasis on the non-verbal characters. Unlike Were-Rabbit, it just misses being a film I'd watch repeatedly.
3.5/5
Unstoppable (AMAZON PRIME 2025)
While this wrestling movie follows the typical formula of other sports or underdog films, it doesn't diminish the inspirational true story of Anthony Robles. Unfortunately, aside from Jharrel Jerome’s portrayal of Robles, the other characters feel one-dimensional. Bobby Cannavale’s portrayal of Anthony’s abusive father embodies toxic masculinity, delivering macho one-liners. His coaches, played by Michael Pena and Don Cheadle, are underdeveloped, providing just the right motivational quotes when needed. However, I must credit Jennifer Lopez; in dramatic roles, she brings a depth not seen in her comedic or romantic roles. Despite the strong performances by Jerome and Lopez, the movie remains just okay.
3/5
Back In Action (NETFLIX 2025)
After an 11-year hiatus, Cameron Diaz gets in "Back In Action." While the movie isn't as bad as my joke, it doesn't necessarily mean it's a great film. The most disappointing aspect is that you can see the potential with the actors' chemistry, the charming kids, the goofy side character, and Glenn (frickin) Close. Despite these elements, the shortcomings are pretty significant. The CGI can sometimes be cringeworthy, the storyline is somewhat clichéd, and the action scenes are lacking. The movie barely reaches an entertaining level, but at least it's watchable from your couch.
3/5
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