This Week's Must-See Movies: Fresh Picks from Our Critics

Unpacking the Cinematic Landscape

This week's cinematic offerings are as varied as they are engaging. Delving into themes ranging from cancel culture to romantic hijinks, our critics weigh in on what's worth watching.

A Powerful New Drama

'After the Hunt'

Set against the backdrop of academic turmoil, After the Hunt follows a graduate student (Ayo Edebiri) as she confronts the complexities of her sexual assault allegations against a renowned professor, played by Julia Roberts. Despite the star power, the film struggles under the weight of its ambitions:

“After the Hunt seems wildly desperate to be seen as provocative. My overriding sense was that an earlier, better version of the script exists...”

In theaters. Read the full review.

A Nostalgic Return

'Tron: Ares'

For those who grew up on the original Tron, this sequel, directed by Joachim Ronning, might serve as a nostalgic trip, albeit not without its flaws:

“While it lacks the charm of the 1982 film, it's appreciably more enjoyable than its predecessor, Legacy.

In theaters. Read the full review.

Thrills and Chills

'A House of Dynamite'

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, this thriller navigates a missile crisis that'll keep you at the edge of your seat:

“Bigelow's work here is superb. She puts the many moving parts into coordinated place and keeps them coherently spinning.”

In theaters. Read the full review.

Whimsy Meets Reality

'Roofman'

In this quirky comedy, Channing Tatum stars as an escaped convict hiding out in a Toys 'R' Us, where he falls for an employee:

“This protagonist straddles the line between right and wrong... the film wobbles between fun-loving caper and a morality tale.”

In theaters. Read the full review.

Complex Relationships Explored

'If I Had Legs I'd Kick You'

Starring Rose Byrne as a mother nearing her breaking point, this drama marries humor with maternal anxiety:

“A howl of maternal desperation spiked with jagged humor... too relatable for comfort.”

In theaters. Read the full review.

Missed Glamour

'Kiss of the Spider Woman'

This musical drama featuring Jennifer Lopez struggles to capture the essence of classic MGM productions:

“While Lopez handles the songs well, the elegance and verve that made MGM musicals memorable are mostly missing here.”

In theaters. Read the full review.

Existential Comedy

'Mr. K'

A surreal comedy where Crispin Glover plays a magician caught in a bizarre hotel:

“Naturally, the guests are weirdos, and while Glover is the ultimate weirdo, it all feels a bit much.”

In theaters. Read the full review.

From Heartfelt to Humorous

'Soul on Fire'

This drama moves through a boy's journey following a severe burn injury:

“Everyone behaves with decency, but it robs the movie of dimension and subtext.”

In theaters. Read the full review.

Conclusion: A Cinematic Buffet

This week, whether you're in the mood for lighthearted lament or intense exploration, the silver screen offers something for everyone. So grab your popcorn and dive into these stories that reflect the complexities of our times!