The Bad Batch

Bad Bax populates a stereotypical post-apocalypse with unpredictable action and mold-shattering roles for incredible array of actor characters. From the disarming opening to the mind-altering middle, this trek is perpetually intriguing, but struggles to supports its story as the freshness ultimately can’t carrey the weight of a weakly built world.

John Wick: Chapter 2

John acquires less cute but more durable dog and sets out to Wick some more ass. Though the plot is far from bullet-proof, the action has enough adrenaline for three matrices combined and an entertaining array of unCommon opponents including ironically deaf Sheiber make for a compelling two-hour stunt reel.

The Neon Demon

Refn’s starry-eyed lady-Drive warrants forgiveness for failed followup. Sequin sequences periodically punctuate a story that begs comparison in content and style to Ellis’ Glitterama. Decadent cinematography and superbly surreal performances make this alien film stand out in smoggy sky. Cautions against dangers of self-absorption, like monogramming NWR under the title.

The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)

Quasi-remake that starts well enough, and features the decades first decent Keanu casting, but then hits a standstill with introduction of Crichton prey bugs, the most dimly-lit McDonald’s ever, and a complete lack of main character motivation. Ends abruptly with simultaneous saving of planet and destruction of original film’s point.