As of this writing, I have seen a little over twenty five movies, both in theaters and on streaming.
This time around for my looking back at the first half of the year, I will do so in a way that would make Michael Scott of The Office proud: a 2022 cinematic “Dundees” for the first half of 2022.
In no particular order…
Film that proved it’s franchise still has life…
The fifth installment of the Scream franchise shows the series still has some edge left to it.
Film that proved it’s franchise is dead and done…
A small shout out it could indeed be given to Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore, but that film has more behind the scenes type issues (mainly that with Ezra Miller). Jurassic Park: Dominion, on the other hand, ended a trilogy that has no way of coming back from extinction.
Film that reminds us it’s lead can actually act…
Nick Cage had lots of fun playing “himself” in The Unbearable Weight of Mass Talent, but it is always a very nice change of pace for the career of Adam Sandler when he gives us proof he is rather moving in dramatic roles. The most recent advice of this is in his work for Netflix’s Hustle (also showcasing some fine work from NBA player Anthony Edwards.)
Best comic book Film (so far) this year…
While not many to chose from, no question that The Batman sits alone (despite it’s run time).
(Not) Best Comic book film so far this year…
I won’t call it the worst, because it isn’t as bad as it seems people make it out to be. Nevertheless, Morbius is indeed forgettable.
Best Film to watch with the kids…
Since it was direct to Disney +, Turning Red may have been a film some families missed out on. I hope not, because it is another Disney/Pixar flick with plenty of heart, drama, and leaves you feeling as fluffy as a panda.
Shout out also to the surprising charmer Chip N’ Dale: Rescue Rangers, also on Disney +.
Best Film NOT to watch with the kids…
If you have seen The Northman, you know why no one in their right mind would sit their children down in front of this madcap madness of a film. For those that can stomach it, it is indeed a thrill, to say the least.
Film that reminded us movie theaters are awesome…
People like to stay at home to watch movies more than go out these days (and COVID is not the only reason why). Thankfully, we have Tom Cruise who is the obvious reason why a sequel like Top Gun: Maverick has wings, and is, in fact, possibly better than the original.
And finally…
The Best of the year so far…
In the first half of 2022, no film left me with the thrills, laughs, questions, and (most importantly) more googly eyed than Everything, Everywhere at Once.
Worst of the year so far…
2000 Mules, a movie so horrible I don’t even want to find a poster of it. I would be surprised if anything worse comes out this year.
Nothing else to say 