'The Hitman's Bodyguard'

‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’ too tropish for own good

By Grant Stoner | Staff Writer I am not a fan of the action movie genre. For me, the drawn-out chase scenes, only-mildly-entertaining fighting sequences and weak romantic subplots all feel the same. Unfortunately, The Hitman’s Bodyguard is as standard as action movies can come, and despite the amazing rapport between Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L Jackson, the film does little to stand out from … Continue reading ‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’ too tropish for own good

"Spider-Man: Homecoming"

‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ nails Peter, Vulture, but misses intrigue

By Grant Stoner | Staff Writer Since 2002, moviegoers have experienced three different and unique interpretations of New York’s favorite “Web-slinger.” Toby Maguire brought Spider-Man’s nerdy, awkward mannerisms to the forefront, whereas Andrew Garfield’s iteration channeled the cocky side of Peter Parker. Spider-Man: Homecoming’s Tom Holland expertly combines both personalities into a recognizable and lovable Spider-Man, but the overall plot prevents this film from achieving … Continue reading ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ nails Peter, Vulture, but misses intrigue

'All Eyez on Me'

‘All Eyez on Me’ may not be that great, but definitely worth a watch

By Sean Armstrong | Staff Writer All Eyez on Me is an honest depiction of Tupac Shakur’s life, and I intend for this to be an equally honest review. The film is clear cut in showing the controversial rapper as egotistical, consumed by rage and naÏvette. It also shows the other side of the icon, the side that is loyal, compassionate and a voice for … Continue reading ‘All Eyez on Me’ may not be that great, but definitely worth a watch

'Wonder Woman'

‘Wonder Woman’ exceeds expectations, falls short of wonderful

By Zach Landau | A&E Editor I guess a qualifying statement is as good of a place to start as any: Wonder Woman is good, probably great. The DC Extended Universe (or whatever they’re calling this fresh hell) has finally produced its first above-average, competent film, and without a doubt, Wonder Woman stands heads and shoulders above its maligned brethren — especially Batman v. Superman. … Continue reading ‘Wonder Woman’ exceeds expectations, falls short of wonderful

‘Fate of the Furious’ too big for own good

Liyang Wan | Staff Writer “Furious 7” (Fast 7) was probably the peak of the series, and it was a good point to end. However, some film execs seem to be unsatisfied with this success. Hence, we not only have “Fate of the Furious” (Fast 8), but also “Fast 9” and “Fast 10” to look forward to in a stream of endless-sequels. The series has also … Continue reading ‘Fate of the Furious’ too big for own good

‘Power Rangers’ fails to morph into anything worthwhile

By Josiah Martin | Staff Writer If tasked to choose the quintessential ‘90s children’s television show, many would undoubtedly name “Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers.” It has the over-the-top action and styling of series such as “G.I. Joe” and “Transformers,” but added the corny high school drama of “Saved By The Bell.” Updating “Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers” for a modern audience means either reviving the clichés that … Continue reading ‘Power Rangers’ fails to morph into anything worthwhile

‘Cure for Wellness’ cannot cure script, pacing problems

By Sean Ray | A&E Editor Starring Dane DeHaan and Jason Isaacs, “A Cure for Wellness” is a psychological… actually, the second part of that is a bit difficult to describe. It’s not scary enough to be a horror movie. It doesn’t quite have the non-stop excitement needed to be a thriller. It lacks the usual trappings of a mystery to be one. So let’s … Continue reading ‘Cure for Wellness’ cannot cure script, pacing problems

Shyamalan’s newest film splits opinions

By Ollie Gratzinger | Asst. Features Editor Before I get too deep into this, I’ll set down a disclaimer that I’m not usually a fan of horror movies. Thrillers put me on edge and gore makes me lightheaded, but as far as creepy, mentally surreal stories go, “Split” wasn’t half bad. It was unique for sure, and there were twists that even the most well-versed movie … Continue reading Shyamalan’s newest film splits opinions

Shyamalan’s ‘Split’ criticized for portrayal of mental illness

Hallie Lauer | Layout Editor M. Night Shyamalan’s new movie “Split” hit theaters Jan. 20, and while Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 75 percent rating, many movie goers were displeased with the movie’s portrayal of individuals who suffer from mental illnesses. Many online health awareness communities, including U.S. mental illness support group The Mighty, were displeased with the portrayal of the antagonist in the movie. … Continue reading Shyamalan’s ‘Split’ criticized for portrayal of mental illness

‘Fences’ brings in cash to Pittsburgh

By Rebekah Devorak | Opinions Editor  Hollywood award shows, like the Jan. 8 Golden Globes, seem so far away from real life here in Pittsburgh. But if you watched Viola Davis win Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Fences,” you’ll know that the connection between the two is stronger than you might think. “Fences,” which debuted in theaters on Dec. 25 and has a … Continue reading ‘Fences’ brings in cash to Pittsburgh