Spectre

Chicken little was right.  The sky has fallen, and though Bond landed on a couch, everything else was reduced to rubble.  That includes the narrative, the world, the supporting characters, and even the franchise staples.  Indecipherable conspiracy, mediocre action, and tonal tedium culminate with an inglorious villain who frankly blows.

Skyfall

Hopscotches between Bondiest Bond ever, and not a Bond film at all.  Worst Craig opening yet, followed by uncharacteristically character driven flick with interludes of digital dragons and rogue subways. Inception Island for Old Bardem, Straw Dogs third act, and perfect closing scene confuse the hell out of Chicken Little.

Away We Go

Mendes’ attempt at indie feels like Wes Anderson turned Sideways. Krasinski and Rudolph evolve beyond TV comedy roots but drown in a sea of scrambled Eggers supporting characters. Overall an amusing but dissatisfying quasi-comedy that chokes itself with too much quirk. Gyllenhaal, Janney, and Gaffigan are uncharacteristically unimpressive. Indie music!