King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

Son of Royalty snatches the sword in this ritchly visual re-re-retelling of the classic tale. Sharp editing and pointed dialog compensate for kitschy character development and plot contrivances, while the dark magic of the vfx wizards keeps the kingdom enthralled until a lackluster ending brutally breaks plot rules and Law.

The Finest Hours

Half the Afflecks steer half a boat for half a movie before handing over the dramatic reigns to Foster and Pine who brave hellish high water to rescue a Disney ending. Solid performances, phenomenal effects, and wave after wave of tension make up for a boatload of clichés and predictability.

Funny People

Funny people does not equal funny performances. Sandler does well with quasi-serious part of role, but becomes too douchy to empathize with. Rogen and rest of cast do stand up but don’t stand out. Bana revitalizes film in eighth act, but by the three hour mark it loses laughs again.

Star Trek

Fun film about lens flares and how red matter can be used to create plot holes in space-time. Compelling actors distract from fallacious screenplay. The most logical character(s) launches Kirk into space for being irritating, and later jeopardizes Starfleet for sake of potential future friendship. Warning: Film Not for Vulcans.