As July winds down, we are faced with exactly what we expect — and, let’s face it, enjoy — at the multiplex: explosions, monsters, superheroes, robots, and even bigger explosions. But admit it, folks … something has been missing, right? Didn’t you sense that? Haven’t you sat through film after explosiony film this summer wondering when Bruce Willis would show up?
Well, it’s time for dancing in the streets! Joining the likes of blockbusters such as The Lone Ranger, Man of Steel, Monsters University, and Pacific Rim, we finally (finally!) have a Bruce Willis film to sink our teeth into.
Read on, readers. See you in the dark.
Red 2 (Savoy 16 IMAX): This film follows several characters from Red as retired C.I.A. agent Frank Moses (Bruce Willis) reunites his unlikely team of elite operatives for a global quest to track down a missing portable nuclear device.
Why to Watch: Bruce Willis is always a badass, but what makes this burgeoning franchise so unique is that it addresses the issues faced by the aging action hero. Mortality is a whole different kettle of fish for these folks, but that doesn’t dissuade them from blowing some stuff up. I loved the first film, and knowing that most of the cast from that film has returned, I couldn’t be more excited. I guess old habits really do die hard. (Get it?)
Showing daily @ 1:45, 4:25, 7:05, and 9:45 p.m.
Much Ado About Nothing (The Art Theater Co-op): Joss Whedon’s modern take on Shakespeare’s classic comedy continues its residence at The Art all this week.
Why to Watch: In addition to being a smart, fast-moving adaptation of Shakespeare, this film makes for a great game of “Which Whedon Thing Was This Actor In?” See actors from Buffy, Angel, Firefly, Dollhouse, Cabin in the Woods, and The Avengers bring the Bard’s swift, witty comedy of romantic errors to life.
Showing daily @ 5:00 & 7:30 p.m.
Turbo (Savoy 16 IMAX): The story of how a freak accident might just help an everyday garden snail achieve his dream of winning the Indy 500.
Why to Watch: Ryan Reynolds (of Green Lantern infamy) voices Turbo, who longs to go faster in a world that literally moves at a snail’s pace. Snoop Lion and Samuel L. Jackson provide the voices for other snails trying to help achieve Turbo’s dream. While I doubt this film will be nominated for any awards this season, I give it credit for being more entertaining than Disney’s effort at a racing franchise with the Cars films.
Showing daily in 2D @ 11:35 a.m., 1:25, 1:55, 3:45, 6:05, 6:35, & 8:25 p.m.; and in 3D @ 4:15 & 8:55 p.m.
R.I.P.D. (Savoy 16 IMAX): a recently slain cop joins a team of undead police officers working for the Rest in Peace Department and tries to find the man who murdered him.
Why to Watch: Essentially, this film is marketed as the undead version of the still popular Men In Black film series. Ryan Reynolds co-stars with Jeff Bridges, who appears to be having an extremely good time as a Wild West sheriff who mentors the newly dead recruit. Early looks at the film indicate that the special effects and makeup are top notch; if the humor is there, this could be a great film.
Showing daily in 2D @ 12:15, 2:35, & 7:15 p.m.; and in 3D @ 4:55 & 9:35 p.m.
Vertigo (The Art Theater Co-op): A profound, disturbing classic about obsession and love.
Why to Watch: Hitchcock has always had something to say about psychology. Films like Psycho, Rear Window, and this classic use the conventions of film to peel away layers of the human psyche to great effect. James Stewart gives one of his finest performances in this stunning work, which is considered by many to be the finest film ever made.
Showing: July 26, 27, & 31 @ 10:00 p.m.; July 28 @ 11:30 a.m.; and August 1 @ 10:00 p.m.