This weekend, moviegoers have a variety of new releases to choose from, including family-friendly films and thrilling horror stories. With the holiday season approaching, the cinematic landscape is filled with options that cater to different tastes. Here’s a look at some of the latest offerings and what critics are saying about them.
Key Takeaways
- "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever": A family-friendly adaptation that falls short of its source material.
- "Heretic": A horror film that captivates with suspense but falters in its final act.
- "Y2K": A nostalgic comedy-horror that plays on the fears of the turn of the millennium.
- "Red One": An outlandish Christmas adventure that entertains despite its flaws.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
This adaptation of Barbara Robinson’s beloved book tells the story of young Beth, whose mother takes on the challenge of directing a chaotic church Christmas pageant. The film features a cast of misfit children, led by the unruly Herdman siblings, who threaten to derail the production. Critics have noted that while the film is not poorly made, it lacks the charm and depth of the original book, leading to a rather predictable outcome.
Rating: C
Running Time: 99 minutes
Rating: PG for thematic material and brief underage smoking.
Heretic
In a stark contrast, "Heretic" presents a gripping tale of two young Mormon missionaries who find themselves trapped in a stranger’s home. The film is praised for its slow-burn tension and strong performances, particularly from Hugh Grant, who plays the seemingly charming yet sinister Mr. Reed. While the film starts strong, it struggles to maintain its momentum in the final act, leaving some viewers wanting more.
Rating: B-
Running Time: 111 minutes
Rating: R for some bloody violence.
Y2K
Kyle Mooney’s directorial debut, "Y2K," is a comedic take on the anxieties surrounding the year 2000. The film follows two high school juniors who inadvertently crash a New Year’s Eve party, only to find themselves in a life-or-death situation as technology spirals out of control. The trailer features a remixed Bill Clinton, adding a nostalgic touch to the film’s premise. Critics have noted the film’s assured performances and sharp twists, making it a must-watch for fans of quirky comedies.
Release Date: December 6, 2023
Red One
"Red One" is an ambitious holiday film that combines action and comedy, featuring Dwayne Johnson as a security chief and Chris Evans as a bounty hunter on a mission to save Santa Claus. While the film has received mixed reviews for its CGI and clichéd storyline, it excels in its imaginative world-building, introducing various mythical holiday characters. Critics have pointed out that the film’s target audience is unclear, as it straddles the line between family-friendly and adult humor.
Rating: 3/5
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Rating: PG-13 for language and thematic elements.
As the holiday season approaches, these films offer a mix of nostalgia, thrills, and festive cheer, ensuring that there’s something for everyone at the box office this weekend.
Sources
- Weekend Movie Reviews | Community News | postandcourier.com, Post and Courier.
- ‘Y2K’ Trailer: Bill Clinton Remixed for Kyle Mooney’s Directorial Debut, The Hollywood Reporter.
- Red One review: My favorite Christmas movie … if I was 12, Attractions Magazine.
