Don't Be Afraid of the Dark

Pseudo-Guillermo horror remake falls into achasm of lameness when homely Holmes and her Surigate daughter discover that shrink-rayed orcs are stealing their teeth.  A few scenes of graphic violence are fantastically executed but the plot has more holes than that shower curtain and those scissors are more piercing than Guy.

Martha Marcy May Marlene

Other Olsen’s Outstanding Acting makes for an interestingly broken character(s) piece.  Brooding and deliberate if somewhat slow non-linear non-structure allows sense of foreboding to build while Hawkes soars as Manson-esque cult leader, sneaking closer to Ruffalo’s old seat as Indie king.  Paulson’s succeeds at supporting in ways her character can’t. 

S.W.A.T.

Farrell gets re-recruited to B-Team by Xander Cage’s old mentor, Jackson who manages to piss off Renner by including unCool J in anything.  Mildly amusing if utterly predictable action flick.  Provides plenty of explosions, and just enough Rodriguez but never even considers treading new turf.  Oscartavia Spencer pre-cameo hits mark.

Adventureland

Mismarketed teen angst drama isn’t superbad, but satisfies somewhat.  Uncertain Eisenberg (in another 'land') leads Stewart halfway up ladder of decent acting, but she lets go to play with hair.  Reynolds seems out of place as the seven year student in this subdued Animal Park, but SNL leads support well.

London Boulevard

Monahan Departs states for Guy style crime flick, In London.  Farrell’s lead hits Bondy Bullseye as he prettily negotiates gritty England.  Through Naked Thewlis he lands gig visiting Knightley daily as she struggles to portray an awkward British actress.  Fails to be a multilayered cake but still an intriguing caper.

The Grey

Liam’s less tropical Lost, with all men, harsh conditions, and wolves intent on kidnapping his survival family.  Builds suspense and backstory of supporting characters without using stock footage poem that Neeson needs.  Digital After Tomorrow wolves drive everyone over endless edges, to an end that’s far from black and white.