Exploring the Week's New Releases
Whether you're huddled in with popcorn or sneaking in a viewing between errands, this week's lineup of films offers something for everyone. Let's dive into the most talked-about cinematic treasures of the week.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Directed by Nia DaCosta, this sequel jolts back to life with a fervor that transcends typical zombie narratives. The film interweaves multiple threads as survivors navigate their post-apocalyptic realities and extraordinary gore becomes artistically significant.
“The Bone Temple leans on some good old-fashioned gore, plus a few scenes I can only describe as fully, pyrotechnically metal,” our review states. “One sequence provoked a near-standing ovation!”
In theaters now.
A Private Life
This intriguing mystery features Jodie Foster as Lilian, a Parisian psychiatrist embroiled in a whirlwind of crisis after suspecting her patient's death was no accident. Directed by Rebecca Zlotowski, Foster's nuanced performance highlights the compelling tension between personal and professional life.
“Foster navigates the many narrative detours and tonal shifts with her customary virtuosity,” our review praises. “The intrigue is far-fetched yet utterly captivating.”
In theaters now.
Sound of Falling
Set across four defining moments on a rural farm, Mascha Schilinski's drama intricately weaves girlhood triumphs and trials through time. The film invites viewers into the soft, textured world of female experience.
“Something stands in the way of fully engaging with the material,” notes our review. “Its gauzy aloofness can feel uncomfortable, especially with themes like youthful suicide.”
In theaters now.
A Useful Ghost
Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke's directorial debut combines supernatural elements with political allegory. A dead woman possesses a vacuum cleaner, twisting societal expectations—this film is as much a commentary as it is a whimsical narrative.
“Beginning as one thing and ending as quite another, this dazzling film weaves together political allegory, supernatural mystery, and tender love stories,” critiques highlight.
In theaters now.
All You Need Is Kill
This sci-fi anime directed by Kenichiro Akimoto presents a compelling time loop twist as a girl relives the day of an alien attack. Despite intriguing visuals, our review points to a fundamental misalignment of pacing that dulls the tension.
“Even the day of an alien apocalypse starts to get tedious. A true misfortune given the movie's style,” explains the critical takeaway.
In theaters now.
The Rip
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck reunite to investigate a cop corruption case in what promises to A frantic, star-studded romp. However, it seems to prioritize star power over original storytelling.
“This movie telegraphs its entertainment value without quite delivering,” the critique warns. “It's hard to resist the charm of Affleck and Damon, but the film comes off as a missed opportunity.”
On Netflix now.
Night Patrol
Equal parts horror and action, Ryan Prows directs this wild ride featuring vampiric cops in a Los Angeles housing project, necessitating an alliance among rival gangs to save their community. Expect epic gore but less than stellar narrative coherence.
“Buckets of goop and gore in the last act gives this film some camp zing, but lacks a cohesive story to ground its bold visuals,” the review warns.
In theaters now.
Queen Kelly
This newly restored silent film adaptation by the legendary Erich von Stroheim presents opulence at its finest as an orphan meets a prince in a convent setting. The restoration enhances the cinematography's brilliance.
“The shimmering, sensitively scored restoration brings out the opulence,” the critic sums up.
In theaters now.
Final Thoughts
This week showcases a tantalizing mix of styles and stories in cinema, each challenging us to dive deeper into the intricacies of human experience, creativity, and culture. So grab that popcorn, settle in, and let art reflect our chaotic yet beautiful existence.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/16/movies/new-movies-this-week-critics.html
