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A Tense, Intriguing Thriller Reptile is a captivating crime drama that offers plenty of suspense and a strong cast. Benicio del Toro shines as Detective Tom Nichols, navigating a complex murder case in the eerie town of Scarborough. The murder of real-estate broker Summer Elswick (Matilda Lutz) sets the stage for a web of mystery that gradually pulls in suspects like her boyfriend Will Grady (Justin Timberlake), ex-husband Sam Gifford (Karl Glusman), and a mysterious figure with a vendetta, Eli Phillips (Michael Pitt). The film skillfully builds tension as Nichols and his partner, Dan Cleary (Ato Essandoh), piece together clues, leading to a story with wider implications than initially suspected. While the plot can feel a little convoluted at times, it keeps you engaged with its twists and turns. Del Toro is captivating, but Timberlake’s performance falls somewhat short. Though he brings intensity to the role, he lacks the depth and nuance the character demands, and other actors might have handled the role with more finesse. Despite this, Reptile succeeds in delivering a thrilling experience with solid performances and a satisfying mystery. It’s a must-watch for fans of noir-inspired detective stories.

Jennifer Garner returns to the action genre in Peppermint, a film that seeks to showcase her undeniable talent in portraying strong, complex women, much like her iconic roles in Alias and Elektra. Garner's physicality and emotional depth are on full display, reminding audiences of why she became a household name in the first place. In Peppermint, she takes on the role of Riley North, a woman who loses everything and embarks on a journey of brutal vengeance. From the outset, Garner's portrayal of a grieving mother turned vigilante hooks you in. There’s a raw intensity to her performance, and it’s clear she commits fully to the role, embodying the pain, anger, and determination of her character. Watching her transformation from a vulnerable victim to a fierce, calculated warrior had the potential to be both emotionally gripping and empowering. However, while Garner shines in her role, the film itself doesn’t quite rise to meet her. The storyline treads familiar ground, leaning heavily on genre clichés without taking the time to explore the more intriguing facets of her character’s evolution. What I found most disappointing was how quickly Riley's transition from a heartbroken mother to a well-trained vigilante is glossed over. Instead of allowing us to dive into the psychological and physical toll such a transformation would take, the movie rushes through key moments, leaving audiences with more questions than answers. How did she acquire such formidable skills? What toll did her quest for revenge take on her humanity? These are the elements that could have given the film greater emotional depth and helped the audience connect more deeply with her journey. The action sequences are relentless, and while they provide the kind of high-octane thrills you might expect, the film often feels cold and disconnected. The personal stakes established early on — the deep well of empathy built around Riley's loss — quickly fade, leaving behind a rather emotionless barrage of violence. Moments that should have been cathartic, deeply personal payoffs in her quest for retribution were instead glossed over or sacrificed for the sake of moving the plot forward. The result is a film that, at times, feels more mechanical than meaningful. For fans of Garner’s work, Peppermint offers a glimpse of what she’s capable of, but it ultimately falls short of her earlier performances in Alias or even Elektra. It’s clear she deserves a script with more nuance, depth, and attention to the emotional complexities of her character. While Peppermint delivers on action and intensity, it lacks the heart and soul that could have made it truly memorable. If you're in it for the fast-paced fight scenes and a tough, no-nonsense protagonist, you’ll find something to enjoy. But if you’re hoping for a deeper exploration of loss, vengeance, and the consequences of violence, Peppermint may leave you wanting more. Fingers crossed we get that in a sequel! They definitely left us wanting more with that ending!

"Hope Springs" stars Tommy Lee Jones and Meryl Streep as a married couple of over 30 years who have lost their connection. Meryl Streep's character signs them up for couples therapy because she misses the bond they once shared, while Tommy Lee Jones's character reluctantly agrees to attend. Their counselor is portrayed by Steve Carell in a minor but refreshing role, adding a touch of warmth and empathy to the film. Jean Smart plays Meryl's best friend, though her role is unfortunately minor for such a great actress. Throughout the therapy sessions, the couple experiences various heartaches related to communication and intimacy. However, their shared desire to save their marriage shines through. This movie resonates with many married couples who may have lost touch with their significant other, offering hope that communication can rekindle the connection. Overall, "Hope Springs" is a very good movie and definitely worth watching again.

"Dinner with Friends" stars Dennis Quaid, Andie MacDowell, Greg Kinnear, and Toni Collette. The movie delves into the complexities of friendship and marriage, focusing on the unraveling of one couple's relationship due to infidelity. This event forces their closest friends to reflect on their own marriage while trying to remain neutral. As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that one of the friends hasn't been entirely honest, leading to even more questions and tensions within the group. Dennis Quaid and Greg Kinnear's characters seem to have to sneak around to maintain their friendship, adding another layer of strain. Toni Collette once again takes on the role of the quirky friend, making one wish that casting directors would recognize her wider range as an actress. Andie MacDowell plays the wholesome friend, though it would be interesting to see her in more diverse roles as well. One aspect that could have been explored more deeply is the complexity of friendships when two friends divorce. This could have added more depth to the narrative and provided a richer understanding of the characters' dynamics. Overall, "Dinner with Friends" is a good movie. While it may be predictable at times, it maintains enough interest to avoid being boring.

"The Iceman" (2012) is a gripping movie loosely based on the true story of Richard Kuklinski, known as the "Iceman." Michael Shannon delivers a standout performance as Kuklinski, capturing his complex personality with remarkable effort and detail. Winona Ryder plays Kuklinski's wife, and her chemistry with Shannon enhances the film's emotional depth. The late Ray Liotta is compelling as Mob Boss Roy Demeo, delivering a characteristically strong performance. David Schwimmer and Chris Evans contribute solid supporting roles, adding to the film's overall quality. "The Iceman" is definitely worth watching, and it holds up well on repeat viewings.

Bachelorette (2012) is a movie that struggles from beginning to end. Despite a promising cast, including Kirsten Dunst, James Marsden, Rebel Wilson, and Isla Fisher, the film is marred by poor writing and direction. The performances, particularly from Dunst and Marsden, come across as forced and lacking chemistry. Rebel Wilson's talent is underutilized, and Isla Fisher's role feels repetitive compared to her other films. Overall, the movie feels like a contractual obligation rather than a genuine creative effort. Viewers are advised to skip this one, as it fails to deliver on any of its potential and ends up being a regrettable use of time.

Best movie I've seen in 2019, decided to watch when I should have been going to bed due to being on call, but it's so worth being tired due to lack of sleep, okay no sleep. This is an amazing movie about loyalty, courage, strength, friendship & love between a dog & his human companion. Fellas, be prepared to tell your wives or girlfriend if you're not married, your daughters/nieces, sons or who ever that you got around when watching this movie that you got "dust" in your eyes. Ladies, let those tears flow! I will now try my best to not be impatient after a long day when my Owen, Izzy, and my son's Amani are under foot... I can only hope they love me as Togo loved his Human.