ReelViews for R movies

The November Man feels like just about every B-grade spy thriller that has ever been committed to the silver screen. With a slipshod narrative that could be mistaken for diluted Ludlum, Deighton, or Le Carre, The November Man provides us with an op...

Classifying The Novice is a challenge. Lauren Hadaway’s feature directorial debut treads a daring line between drama and psychological horror. By presenting the film through the eyes of the main character, college freshman Alex Dall (Isabelle Fu...

Perhaps the most remarkable thing about Novitiate is the even-handedness with which it treats religion in general and 1960s era Catholicism in particular. Set mostly within the confines of a convent, the feature debut of writer/director Margare...

There are times when Novocaine is a blast – mostly when it’s relying on the easygoing charisma of actor Jack Quaid, leaning into chemistry between Quaid and Amber Midthunder, or having fun with some of the more unconventional aspects of the le...

Since this is a thriller, there must be a twist. One goes into a movie like The Number 23 with this expectation. However, not only is the twist telegraphed early but it is presented in a clumsy and unconvincing manner. Other films have employed ...

The Object of My Affection, based on the novel of the same name by Stephen McCauley, is a pleasant romantic comedy that asks (and tries to answer) questions about the nature of love, sex, family, and friendship. And, while some of the solutions ar...

Probably every review written of Observe and Report will mention, in one context or another, Paul Blart: Mall Cop. The connection is understandable: both are satirical looks at the trials and tribulations of life as a private security guard (a.k.a...

Sometimes, it's all about execution. There are times when a movie can boast a compelling premise, yet translating that idea into reality defeats the filmmakers. Maybe the screenplay sucks, the actors aren’t up to snuff, or the tone is all over t...

Occupation accomplishes the previously unthinkable: an alien invasion film that makes Independence Day look smart. A so-bad-it-has-to-be-seen-to-be-believed motion picture (not that I recommend subjecting oneself to the experience), Occupation...

For a horror movie, Oculus is surprisingly lean on the scares. It's more interested in playing tricks with perception and bending reality. Ambitious material for director/editor Mike Flanagan (expanding from his award-winning short) and, if he does...