This week at the movies: Kubo and the Two Strings takes stop-motion animation to a whole new level; Ben-Hur tells the epic story of Judas; and Jonah Hill and Miles Teller set fire to the screen in War Dogs.
Kubo and the Two Strings
Young Kubo's (Art Parkinson) peaceful existence comes crashing down when he accidentally summons a vengeful spirit from the past. Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey (Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Matthew McConaughey) to unlock a secret legacy. Armed with a magical instrument, Kubo must battle the Moon King (Ralph Fiennes) and other gods and monsters to save his family and solve the mystery of his fallen father, the greatest samurai warrior the world has ever known.
Rated PG. Directed by Travis Knight. Fantasy/Adventure. 1h 41m.
What the Critics Say:
“Yet another success for stop-motion giants Laika, Kubo boasts big laughs and effective scares in a typically gorgeous animated tale.” – Empire
“Kubo offers another ominous mission for a lucky young misfit, this one a dark, yet thrilling adventure quest that stands as the crowning achievement in Laika's already impressive oeuvre.” – Variety
Our Take: This is the perfect weekend movie for the entire family. Grab the kids and go!
Prince Judas Ben-Hur (Jack Huston) is wrongly accused of treason by his adopted brother Messala (Toby Kebbell), a Roman Army officer, and is forced into slavery. Stripped of his title and separated from his family and the love of his life (Nazanin Boniadi), Judas decides to return to his homeland to seek vengeance. Also starring Morgan Freeman and Rodrigo Santoro.
Rated PG-13. Directed by Timur Bekmambetov. Drama/Action. 2h 30m.
What the Critics Say:
“… Rather than copying the classically composed, wide-screen thrills of the '59 film, Bekmambetov goes for GoPro cameras and quick, in-the-action excitement. The Roman arena itself, carved out of a cliff, gives the film a rare, and much-needed, jolt of imagination.” – New York Daily News
Our Take: Even though the original 1959 version won 11 Oscars (tough act to follow!), this reboot is full of exciting action and modern special effects. If historical period films are your thing, then Ben-Hur is right up your alley.
With the war in Iraq raging on, Efraim Diveroli (Jonah Hill) offers childhood friend David Packouz (Miles Teller) a chance to make big bucks by becoming an international arms dealer. Together, they exploit a government initiative that allows businesses to bid on U.S. military contracts. Starting small allows the duo to rake in money and live the high life. They soon find themselves in over their heads after landing a $300 million deal to supply Afghan forces, a deal that puts them in business with some very shady people. Also starring Bradley Cooper.
Rated R. Directed by Todd Phillips. Crime/Drama. 1h 54m.
What the Critics Say:
“That rare thing: a based-in-reality movie that gives you a buzz. The film just about tingles with the antic pleasure of seeing people get away with things they shouldn't.” – Variety
“Armed with a true story that seems implausible even for the big screen, director Todd Phillips comes out guns blazing in War Dogs." – New York Daily News
Our Take: Get ready for big laughs and riveting performances by Jonah Hill and Miles Teller. We can’t believe this one is actually based on a true story(!) and can’t wait to see it.