Rusty Movies

Wicked - A Grand Adaptation of the Beloved Musical Rating - 9/10 “Are people born wicked, or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?”      The long awaited film adaptation of Wicked finally brings the beloved Broadway story to the big screen, and it does so with plenty of spectacle and heart. The movie manages to capture the magic that made the stage show such a phenomenon while also carving out its own identity with lavish visuals, strong performances, and some truly powerful musical numbers.      Cynthia Erivo absolutely shines as Elphaba. Her voice is incredible and she brings so much depth to the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. Ariana Grande is equally strong as Glinda, leaning into the bubbly comedic energy of the role while still finding moments of vulnerability. Their chemistry together is the emotional anchor of the story, and their friendship filled with ups, downs, and ultimately heartbreak makes the film resonate beyond the songs an...

Spider-Man - A Nostalgic Dose of Spider-Fun Rating - 8/10 “With great power comes great responsibility.”      Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man from 2002 is one of those movies that instantly hits with nostalgia. It’s a little campy, sometimes cheesy, but that’s part of what makes it so much fun. Watching Peter Parker stumble through his transformation from awkward teen to web-slinging hero feels both endearing and classic, and Tobey Maguire’s earnest take on the character still has a certain charm to it.      The heart of this movie comes from Peter’s relationships. His bond with Uncle Ben makes the emotional core land hard, and his dynamic with Mary Jane sets the stage for the entire trilogy. Even when the dialogue veers into melodrama, it fits with the heightened comic book tone Raimi is going for.      Of course, you can’t talk about this movie without mentioning Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn, aka the Green Goblin. He’s larger than life, unhinged,...

Die Hard - The Perfect Christmas Movie Rating - 10/10 “Yippee-ki-yay.”      Die Hard remains an absolute classic and to me it is the best Christmas movie ever made. It is a perfect blend of action, suspense, and sharp dialogue, and it never loses its sense of fun even when the bullets are flying. Bruce Willis steps into the role of John McClane with charisma and grit, turning what could have been a generic action hero into someone relatable, sarcastic, and genuinely easy to root for.      Of course, the late and great Alan Rickman deserves just as much praise. In his first major film role, he delivers Hans Gruber as one of the most memorable villains in cinema history. He is calm, intelligent, ruthless, and strangely charming all at once. Every scene between McClane and Gruber crackles with tension, and Rickman’s performance elevates the film into legendary status.      The supporting cast also shines, with memorable moments from Sgt. Pow...

8-Bit Christmas - A Simple Comfort Film for the Holidays  Rating - 7/10 “Sometimes the best gifts come in the most unexpected packages.”      8-Bit Christmas is a fun little holiday film that mixes the magic of Christmas with a heavy dose of 80s nostalgia. Told through a father recounting his childhood to his daughter, the story centers around one boy’s desperate quest to get a Nintendo Entertainment System for Christmas. It is a setup that is both simple and instantly relatable to anyone who remembers wanting that one perfect gift as a kid.      The movie thrives on its sense of nostalgia. From the clothes to the toys to the general energy of suburban childhood in the 80s, it captures that time period with charm. The comedy works well, striking a nice balance between heartfelt storytelling and exaggerated hijinks. It is not laugh-out-loud funny all the time, but it keeps a warm and playful tone that feels just right for a Christmas movie.  ...

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse - The Animation that Keeps Raising the Stakes Rating - 9/10 “Let’s do this one more time.”      Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse swings higher than almost any superhero sequel could hope to. From the very first frame it is clear this movie is pushing boundaries in ways other animated films and comic book movies can only dream about. The animation is nothing short of breathtaking. Every scene feels like a piece of moving art, with styles shifting to reflect characters, worlds, and moods in a way that is both inventive and visually dazzling.      The story picks up with Miles Morales growing into his role as Spider-Man, but it does not just retread what we saw in the first film. Instead, it dives deeper into questions of identity, responsibility, and sacrifice. The pacing does stumble a bit though. The first half of the movie is focused on Spot, who starts as a joke but becomes a genuinely compelling and dangerous vi...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 - The Best One Yet?! Rating - 8/10 “You’re comparing yourself to me? Ha! You’re not even good enough to be my fake.”      Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is easily the strongest entry in this series so far. While the first two movies leaned heavily on fun antics and family-friendly comedy, this one takes a real step up in its storytelling. The movie gives Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles a more focused journey while finally introducing Shadow in a way that fans of the games have been waiting for. Shadow’s presence feels true to the source material, capturing his edge and intensity without losing sight of the fun tone the films are known for.      Jim Carrey returns as Robotnik, and he is somehow even funnier this time around. Playing two versions of the character lets him fully unleash his manic energy, and it never feels stale. His scenes are a constant highlight and show that Carrey is still unmatched when it comes to this kind of cartoonish villa...

Dead pool 2 - The Merc with the Mouth Returns Rating - 8/10 "What do you get when you take 8-feet of chrome, one pinch of courage, a cup of good luck, a dab of racism, a splash of diabetes, and a wheelbarrow of stage 4 cancer? A family."      Deadpool 2 takes everything that worked about the first movie and tries to crank it up to the next level. Ryan Reynolds continues to absolutely own this role, blending sharp sarcasm, nonstop quips, and genuine heart in a way that makes Deadpool such a unique comic book character on screen. This sequel doubles down on the humor and action while also finding surprising emotional beats, especially with Wade’s personal struggles and his bond with the young mutant Russell.      The introduction of Cable, played by Josh Brolin, brings in a gruff time-traveling foil who works well opposite Deadpool’s ridiculous antics. The contrast between Cable’s no-nonsense attitude and Deadpool’s chaos makes their dynamic one of the highl...

Frozen 2 - Another Disney Cash Grab  Rating - 6/10 “Into the unknown!”      Frozen 2 is a movie that feels like Disney cashing in on the overwhelming success of the first film. I already was not the biggest fan of the original, and this sequel does little to change that. The story tries to expand the world and the lore behind Elsa’s powers, but it ends up feeling forced and generic rather than magical.      That said, the movie is not without its strengths. The animation is absolutely beautiful, with some stunning visuals that make full use of the icy landscapes and mystical forests. Disney’s animators clearly brought their A-game, and there are moments where the film looks breathtaking. The music, while not as catchy as the first, still has its standouts. “Lost in the Woods” in particular is a highlight, leaning into a hilarious 80s-style power ballad that actually works and adds some personality to the film.      The rest of the so...

Klaus - A Modern Christmas Classic Rating - 9/10 “A true act of goodwill always sparks another.”      Klaus is one of those rare animated films that feels timeless from the moment you watch it. The story is heartwarming without ever getting too sugary, the comedy is smart, and the performances from the voice cast bring every character to life in a way that feels genuine. It is both hilarious and touching, a perfect combination for a holiday movie.      The voice acting across the board is excellent. Jason Schwartzman nails the spoiled yet redeemable postman Jesper, Rashida Jones adds warmth and strength as Alva, and J. K. Simmons brings quiet power to Klaus himself. Their chemistry creates an emotional foundation that makes the film’s message resonate far more deeply than you might expect from an animated Christmas story.      The story itself is crafted with care. It is a reimagining of the Santa Claus legend, told with fresh creativity ...

Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery - Another Brilliant,  Benoit Blanc Case Rating - 8/10 “I do not fear the dead. I fear the living.”      Wake Up Dead Man delivers a gripping and stylish mystery that pushes the Benoit Blanc series into darker and more emotionally charged territory, and it earns a strong eight out of ten. This entry trades some of the playful energy of Glass Onion for a story that feels heavier and more mature, and that tonal shift works surprisingly well. It embraces mood and atmosphere in a way the series has not fully explored before, creating a mystery that feels tense, layered, and genuinely unsettling at times.      The performances across the board are excellent, but Josh O O’Connor stands out with a magnetic presence that gives the movie an emotional center. He brings nuance and unpredictability to his role, creating a character who keeps the audience guessing without ever tipping into caricature. Daniel Craig remains ...

Deadpool - The Merc With a Mouth Arrives Rating - 8/10 "Maximum effort"      Deadpool is the role Ryan Reynolds was born to play, and he brings every ounce of wit, sarcasm, and chaotic energy needed to make the Merc with a Mouth work on screen. From the first irreverent opening credits, the movie sets its tone as a sharp and hilarious twist on the superhero formula.      The humor is relentless and razor sharp. Between the fourth wall breaks, the nonstop banter, and the clever digs at the superhero genre itself, Deadpool stands out for being unapologetically self aware. It is a comedy first and a superhero movie second, and that unique mix is what makes it so refreshing.      What makes the film even more impressive is how well it uses its smaller budget. The action is tight, stylish, and perfectly in sync with Deadpool’s personality. The highway fight sequence is the prime example, blending brutal combat with laugh out loud gags in a way...

Sonic The Hedgehog 2 - The Best Rom-Com Starring a Blue Hedgehog Rating - 7/10  “Let’s do this together.”      Sonic the Hedgehog 2 keeps the fun energy of the first movie alive while raising the stakes and adding new fan favorite characters into the mix. It is just as colorful, fast paced, and entertaining as the original, but it finds fresh ground by expanding the world and Sonic’s relationships. For a sequel, it does exactly what it needs to do: bring in more of the iconic Sonic lore while keeping the heart and humor intact.      The big highlight here is the addition of Tails and Knuckles. Tails is instantly lovable, his wide eyed optimism and tech skills making him the perfect partner for Sonic. Their friendship develops naturally and gives Sonic more emotional depth. Knuckles, on the other hand, is both hilarious and imposing. His overly serious demeanor creates some of the funniest moments in the film, especially in contrast to Sonic’s snarky...

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Finally, a Great Outing for Marvel's First Family Rating - 8/10 “This is just the beginning.”      Fantastic Four: First Steps is a refreshing take on Marvel’s first family that manages to capture both the heart and spectacle of the comics. The movie takes its time building relationships and exploring what makes this team special rather than rushing from action set piece to action set piece. The result is a film that might not have wall to wall explosions, but instead thrives on strong character work, chemistry, and a retro futuristic aesthetic that makes the world feel both new and classic at the same time.      One of the most surprising elements of the film is Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards. Going in, there was plenty of skepticism about his casting, but Pascal delivers a thoughtful and layered take on Mr. Fantastic. He balances Reed’s brilliant intellect with his slightly aloof and obsessive tendencies, making him fe...

Frozen - Disney's Most Overrated Movie Rating - 6/10 "Let it go"      Frozen took the world by storm when it was released, becoming a cultural phenomenon almost overnight. While it is a solid Disney film with some good laughs and memorable music, it is also one of the most overrated movies in the studio’s history. The story is fine but nothing groundbreaking, the characters are likable but not top tier Disney, and the songs, while catchy, have been elevated far beyond what they deserve. I'm sorry for those who disagree, but come on. This is not the greatest animated movie of all time, which is what Disney adults seem to believe.      The biggest offender here is “Let It Go.” When it first hit theaters, it was a powerful and well performed song that stood out as a highlight. But endless radio play, countless covers, and years of overexposure have turned it into one of the most irritating earworms in Disney history. What was once inspiring now feels like n...

A Christmas Story - A Quotable Classic Rating - 8/10 “You’ll shoot your eye out.”      A Christmas Story has earned its place as one of the most beloved holiday classics, and it is easy to see why. The movie is funny, warm, and endlessly quotable, striking that perfect balance between nostalgia and humor that keeps people coming back every December. It captures the small details of childhood with such honesty that it feels timeless.      The film follows young Ralphie and his desperate wish to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Along the way, we get a series of hilarious and memorable moments that have become ingrained in pop culture. From the leg lamp to the tongue on the frozen pole to the iconic pink bunny pajamas, the movie is filled with scenes that still get laughs decades later.      What makes A Christmas Story really work is its perspective. It is told through the eyes of a child but narrated with the hindsight of an adult, whic...

Stranger Things: Season 4 - An Epic Return to Form Rating - 9/10 “There are no right choices here. We just make the best ones we can.”      Season four of Stranger Things brings the show roaring back to its darker tone, delivering one of its most intense and emotionally charged chapters yet. The world of Hawkins feels heavier and more dangerous than ever, and the creative team leans into the horror influence with confidence. Although the cast is starting to feel very large and certain characters like Mike and Jonathan slip further into the background, the season remains gripping from the first episode. The show finds its balance again by embracing fear, tragedy, and mystery rather than the campier style of the previous season.      Vecna is easily one of the most terrifying villains the series has created. His presence feels looming and personal, and the show gives him a humanity that makes him even more disturbing. Having a monster who can speak, manipula...

Thunderbolts* - AKA The New Avengers Rating - 8/10 “Sometimes the only way forward is to face what you fear.”      Thunderbolts is a surprisingly strong entry in the Marvel lineup. Rather than going for nonstop spectacle, it leans heavily into drama and character work, which makes it feel different in the best way. The movie tackles mental health head on, and that theme is woven throughout in ways that feel meaningful and impactful. It is not just surface level commentary but a genuine attempt to explore how these flawed characters live with their struggles while still being thrown into extraordinary circumstances.      Yelena continues to shine, cementing herself as one of the most compelling characters in the MCU. She brings heart, humor, and depth in equal measure, carrying a big portion of the emotional weight of the film. But the biggest surprise comes from Lewis Pullman, who delivers an incredible performance as Bob, Sentry, and Void. Balancing all...

Sonic The Hedgehog - Jim Careys the Movie Rating - 6/10 "Gotta Go Fast"      Sonic the Hedgehog is a fun little kids movie that delivers more charm than it probably had any right to. The story is straightforward and nothing groundbreaking, but it moves along at a quick pace and never takes itself too seriously. That works in its favor, especially for the younger audience it is aiming for. There are plenty of jokes, action scenes, and lighthearted moments to keep kids entertained, while adults can still find some enjoyment in the nostalgia and energy of the film.      The real standout here is Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik. His performance is completely unhinged in the best possible way, stealing every scene he is in. He brings the kind of wacky, over the top energy that only Carrey can pull off, and it gives the movie the personality it desperately needs. Without him, this film would have been much less memorable.      One of the most interest...

Captain America: Brave New World - A 400 Million Dollar Failure Rating - 3/10  “The world is changing. We have to change with it.”      Captain America Brave New World had the chance to push the MCU in an exciting direction, but instead it stumbles into one of the most uneven and disappointing entries yet. You can feel the tug of war between what the movie wants to be and what it was forced to become, and the result is a film that never locks into a clear identity.      On the surface there are some bright spots. A few performances are strong and there are glimpses of creative action ideas, but the execution is never consistent. Every time a sequence starts to build momentum it gets undercut by bad pacing, awkward editing, or sloppy CGI. Instead of feeling energized, the action often leaves you shaking your head.      The villain is almost painfully bland, the kind of character you forget the moment the credits roll. What hurts even ...

Stranger Things: Season 3 - A Fun, Messy Time Rating - 7/10 “If you don’t mind, I’m going to keep yelling at you.”      Season three of Stranger Things arrives with a brighter, louder, more chaotic energy than the previous seasons, and that shift creates both its strengths and its weaknesses. It still carries the heart and spirit of the series, but it leans a bit more into camp and comedy in ways that sometimes feel a little too forced. Some jokes land, but others feel like they are trying too hard to recapture the effortless charm of earlier seasons. Even so, the core remains strong enough to carry the story forward with plenty of entertainment.      The upside is that the series does not lose its grasp on horror. Season three may be more colorful with its mall setting and summer adventure tone, but the gross and extremely goorey body horror elements are some of the nastiest the show has ever done. The Mind Flayer’s new form is unsettling and well crafted...

Dead Poets Society - O Captain! My Captain! Rating - 9/10 “Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.”      Dead Poets Society is a rare film that feels timeless and emotionally powerful. Set in the halls of a strict and traditional boarding school, the film explores themes of conformity, individuality, and the importance of pursuing passion. At the center of it all is Robin Williams in one of his most unforgettable roles. His performance as John Keating is both inspiring and heartbreaking, a reminder of the impact a single teacher can have on the lives of their students.      The entire cast delivers outstanding work. The young actors give honest and emotional performances that make you connect deeply with their struggles, friendships, and triumphs. Their characters each wrestle with their own expectations and pressures, and the way their stories intertwine gives the film incredible depth. Robin Williams of course elevates the entire...

Stranger Thing: Season 2 - The Dark Saga Continues Rating - 8/10 “She is not yours. You fixed her, but you did not make her.”      Season two of Stranger Things builds on everything that made the first season special while expanding the world in bold and exciting ways. The Duffer Brothers clearly aimed to deepen the emotional core of the story, raise the stakes, and push the characters into new territory. While not every creative swing lands perfectly, the season remains a gripping and heartfelt continuation that keeps the magic of the show alive.      The character work is once again excellent. Eleven’s journey is one of the strongest elements, showing a young girl struggling to understand her identity, her power, and her place in the world. Her relationships with Hopper and Mike provide the emotional backbone of the season, and the tension created by her isolation is genuinely effective. Hopper continues to shine as a gruff but deeply compassionate fat...

The Polar Express - A Classic Story Stuck in the Uncanny Valley Rating - 5/10 “Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.”      The Polar Express is one of those movies that a lot of people hold dear around the holidays. It has that warm nostalgic glow, boosted by a beautiful score and some truly memorable Christmas music that has stood the test of time. Watching it can instantly bring back that sense of childhood wonder and magic, which is exactly what a holiday film should strive to do.      But while the story and music shine, the film has one glaring issue that keeps it from reaching its full potential. The character animation. There is no way around it, the people in this movie look strange. The motion capture creates faces that sit firmly in the uncanny valley, and instead of feeling magical, they often come across as unsettling and almost creepy. It is the biggest distraction in a film that oth...

Stranger Things: Season 1 - An Original Sci-Fi Masterpiece Rating - 9/10 "She's our friend and she's crazy!"     The show that started a massive fandom and captured everyone's attention immediately.  Season one of Stranger Things arrives with a confidence and charm that feels instantly timeless. It captures the magic of eighties adventure stories, the tension of classic horror, and the warmth of a small town character drama all at once. It is rare for a modern series to balance nostalgia with something that feels fresh, but this first season does it with ease and makes Hawkins feel like a place you have known forever.      The heart of the season lies with its characters, especially the kids. Mike, Lucas, Dustin, and later Eleven form a group that feels authentic and deeply likable. Mike’s earnest loyalty, Lucas’s skepticism, Dustin’s big heart and humor, and Eleven’s quiet intensity all click together and build the emotional core of the show. Eleven in ...

Deadpool and Wolverine - Honoring Fox's Legacy in a Very Deadpool Way Rating - 8/10 "You know how long I been waiting for this? Whoo, I'm aboutta make a name for myself here."      Deadpool and Wolverine is exactly what you expect it to be, for better and for worse. It is loud, bloody, self aware, and full of the kind of chaotic energy only Deadpool can bring. The pairing of Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman feels effortless, and their chemistry is the movie’s greatest strength. Whether they are trading insults, slicing through enemies, or just bickering like an old married couple, the two of them command every scene they are in.      The action is fast and brutal, blending over the top violence with slick choreography. The comedy hits more often than it misses, keeping the movie fun even when the story is shaky. The cameos are a big part of the appeal, and they do not disappoint. Gambit showing up is both hilarious and absurd in the best way, and other appe...

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation - A Quotable Holiday Classic Rating - 7/10 “We’re gonna have the hap-hap-happiest Christmas.”      National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has firmly cemented itself as a holiday staple, and for good reason. With its mix of slapstick comedy, sharp one liners, and relatable family chaos, it is the kind of film that people return to year after year without it losing its charm.      Chevy Chase shines as Clark Griswold, the eternal optimist who just wants to give his family the perfect Christmas, no matter how many disasters get in his way. The supporting cast is equally strong, with each character adding their own quirks and humor to the chaos, from Cousin Eddie’s wild antics to the Griswold kids’ exasperated patience with their dad.      The comedy here is both broad and clever, with physical gags balanced by witty exchanges that make the film funny no matter how many times you have seen it. The mix of f...

The Marvels - A Bland Checklist Movie for the MCU Rating - 4/10 “Higher, further, faster, together.”      The Marvels is another stumble for the MCU, and one that feels especially disappointing given the potential of its cast. On paper, teaming up Captain Marvel, Monica Rambeau, and Ms. Marvel should have been a recipe for a fun, energetic adventure. Instead, what we get is a bland, uneven film that struggles to find its footing.      The biggest issue here is the villain. Forgettable in every sense of the word, they never feel like a real threat or leave any lasting impression. In a universe filled with larger than life antagonists, this one barely registers. A weak villain drags the whole movie down, and it is hard to stay invested when the stakes feel so low.      The much talked about musical planet sequence deserves mention, but unfortunately not for the right reasons. It is awkward, cringy, and grinds the pacing to a halt. Instead of a...