By Tony Beal
Reviews
The Life of Chuck
Mike Flanagan’s introspective “The Life of Chuck” unfolds in reverse — beginning with death and tracing back to life’s quiet origins.
It’s an elegiac meditation on mortality, steeped in his signature claustrophobic aesthetic that blurs the line between haunting and heartwarming. Yet, the film struggles to maintain tonal cohesion; a languid second act drains momentum and underuses Tom Hiddleston, whose role pales beside his younger counterparts.
Flanagan swings for profound, but the result, while admirable, often feels like a beautiful sketch rather than a fully realized portrait.
Materialists
Celine Song’s sophomore feature isn’t your standard rom-com, despite the promotional gloss. “Materialists” probes deeper, offering a sobering look at the transactional nature of love and the illusions that bind people together.
The cast excels, especially Pedro Pascal, whose charm eclipses all around him. The film earns points for ambition and thematic boldness, but an erratic pace and jarring pauses in dialogue detract from its rhythm.
Imperfect but intriguing, it cements Song as a filmmaker with something to say—even if she’s still refining how to say it.
Predator: Killer of Killers
This animated entry in the Predator franchise is as sleek as it is savage. “Killer of Killers” stretches across timelines, pitting elite killers against the iconic alien hunter with stunning visual flair.
The animation unlocks visceral combat sequences that live-action could never dream of, though the storytelling leans shallow — each segment a stylish brawl more than a character study. Still, it culminates in a satisfying finale that unites its fragmented structure.
A lean, kinetic thrill ride for franchise faithfuls.
Dangerous Animals
Yes, it’s about a killer who weaponizes sharks. No, it’s not high art. But “Dangerous Animals” is schlock done right — tight, fast, and unapologetically bonkers.
Jai Courtney revels in his villainous role, delivering an unhinged performance that chews scenery as gleefully as his aquatic accomplices.
The script is thin but functional, with just enough ingenuity from its heroine to keep things afloat.
You come for the sharks, you stay for the chaos. Three stars — no more, no less.
NEW RELEASES
July 2
40 Acres
Jurassic World: Rebirth
The Old Guard 2 (Netflix)
Heads Of State (Amazon Prime Video)
July 11
Superman
Sovereign (Limited)
July 18
Eddington
I Know What You Did Last Summer
Smurfs
July 25
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
The Home
House on Eden
Happy Gilmore 2 (Netflix)
