What to Watch: Before Midnight
Now showing at The Art Theater Co-Op, Before Midnight is the enchanting third film in the Before trilogy. Writer/director Richard Linklater, who wrote and directed the three features, has created a franchise that is unique because of its focus on its characters, Jesse and Celine, played by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy.
Why to Watch: As I stated in my review of the film, the way Linklater and his stars show the progression of this couple’s relationship is something remarkable to behold. Celine has issues with aging while Jesse struggles with his next step in life. Both of these issues are real world problems and struggles couples go through, and seeing it played with such honesty in this film provides a truly unique experience.
What to Watch: Monsters University
Now showing at Savoy 16 IMAX, this film serves as a prequel to the much belovedDisney/Pixar classic Monsters, Inc. Mike and Sully are fighting to survive scare college in an effort to become professional scarers. Billy Crystal and John Goodman again provide the voices of Mike and Sully, respectively.
Why to Watch: Monsters, Inc. was an incredibly deep story about friendship and loyalty, and it will be interesting to see how that friendship began. Pixar also made sure to include as many inside references to Monsters, Inc. as possible, and fans of the first film will probably be delighted to know that the characters they love prove just as charming in a younger form.
What to Watch: This Is The End
Now showing at Savoy 16 IMAX, the plot of the film is simple: Seth Rogen and a handful of other Hollywood comedy actors go to a party at James Franco’s house. The end of the world ensues.
Why to Watch: Directed by Rogen and his writing partner Evan Goldberg, this film looks to be a lot of fun. You have very funny comedians from the Judd Apatow farm system and beyond, as well as a crazy mix of other random celebrities freaking out about the world coming to an end. Yes, these actors are playing exaggerated versions of themselves but I think that is in the movie’s favor. I, for one, can’t wait to see the cameo at the end of the film by a certain popular 90s group.
What to Watch: Frances Ha
Now showing at The Art Theater Co-Op, this offbeat indie comedy written by starGreta Gerwig and director Noah Bambauch tells the story of Frances, a 20 something ballet teacher who doesn’t really do any of the things she says she does. The reality of her life is the opposite of the happy fiction she lives in.
Why to Watch: It’s a comedy about not knowing your place in the world and struggling to find it. From the trailer alone, I know the film will be engaging, funny, touching, and relatable. If you’re a student (or once were), you should take the time to check out this comedy about one woman’s struggle with life.
What to Watch: Man of Steel
Now showing at Savoy 16 IMAX, this is the story of a young boy named Clark Kent who discovers that he is the answer to the question “are we alone in the universe.” Clark grows up and… Okay, if you’re from this planet, you know what he grows up and does. It involves a cape and a Kryptonian warlord named General Zod.
Why to Watch: It’s the first Superman film in seven years, nerds! Comic book enthusiasts will either love it or destroy it on their blogs and websites. The performances by Henry Cavill and Amy Adams as Clark Kent and Lois Lane are strong despite the plot being rather thin for a superhero origin story. If you want to see explosions and destruction and huge fight scenes, Man of Steel is the movie for you. If you are more of a story person, please consult Star Trek Into Darkness.