Rusty Movies

Hubie Halloween - Another Copy & Paste Adam Sandler Flick Rating - 3/10 "The only thing scarier than Halloween is not believing in yourself."      Hubie Halloween is another entry in Adam Sandler’s long line of silly comedies, and while it has a few lighthearted moments, it mostly misses the mark. Set in Salem, the movie follows Hubie, a well-meaning but bumbling man who takes it upon himself to protect his town during Halloween. The idea could have been fun, but the execution ends up feeling more annoying than entertaining.      The biggest issue with Hubie Halloween is its humor. Most of the jokes fall flat, relying on juvenile gags and slapstick that feel recycled from Sandler’s earlier work. The movie leans so heavily into its absurdity that it becomes exhausting rather than funny. Even with a stacked cast of familiar Sandler collaborators, very few moments stand out as genuinely amusing.      That being said, there is a strange...

 Black Widow - We Should Have Gotten This Sooner Rating - 7/10 "Pain only makes us stronger."      Black Widow is a solid but overdue addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Centered on Natasha Romanoff’s story, it finally gives Scarlett Johansson the spotlight she deserved years earlier. The film delivers some strong action sequences, good humor, and an emotional family dynamic that makes it more than just another spy thriller. However, it is hard to shake the feeling that this movie should have been released right after Captain America Civil War , when its story would have carried far more weight.      The best part of Black Widow comes from the new characters. Florence Pugh as Yelena steals nearly every scene she is in, bringing humor and heart while also setting herself up as a key future player in the MCU. David Harbour adds some fun as Red Guardian, and Rachel Weisz fits well into the family dynamic. Together, this new cast keeps the movi...

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark - Exactly What the Title Says it is Rating - 7/10   "This town has told stories about me. Horrible stories."      Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark takes the beloved and creepy children’s books and transforms them into a movie that feels like a campfire tale brought to life. Directed by André Øvredal and produced by Guillermo del Toro, the film does a solid job of capturing the eerie and unsettling spirit of Alvin Schwartz’s original stories, while also weaving them into a larger narrative about a cursed book that brings nightmares into reality.      The movie’s greatest strength lies in its creature design and atmosphere. The Pale Lady, Harold the Scarecrow, and the Jangly Man are all incredibly creepy and memorable, brought to life with practical effects and clever use of lighting and tension. These sequences are the film at its best, combining suspense and dread in a way that feels true to the tone of the source ...

Spider-Man: Far From Home  - A Fun Post-Endgame Romp Rating - 8/10 "Everywhere I go, I see his face."      Spider-Man Far From Home is a fun and energetic follow up to Homecoming that lets Peter Parker step out of Tony Stark’s shadow while still dealing with the grief of losing his mentor. The film balances high school comedy with world saving action, creating a story that feels both lighthearted and surprisingly heavy at times.      One of the biggest highlights here is Jake Gyllenhaal as Mysterio. He plays the role with charm and ease, making the twist about his true intentions all the more effective. The illusion sequences are some of the most visually creative moments in the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, showing how the filmmakers can still find new ways to push the superhero genre forward.      Tom Holland once again shines as Peter Parker. His awkwardness, humor, and vulnerability make him easy to root for, and his dynamic...

Coco - A Beautiful Pixar Triumph Rating - 9/10 "Remember me."      Coco is one of Pixar’s most heartfelt and visually stunning films. Set during Día de los Muertos, it tells the story of Miguel, a young boy who dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s ban on music. What unfolds is a vibrant journey into the Land of the Dead that explores themes of family, tradition, and memory in a way that is both entertaining and deeply moving.      The animation is breathtaking, with every frame filled with color and detail that brings both the real world and the afterlife to life. The Land of the Dead is especially gorgeous, filled with glowing towers and floating bridges of marigold petals. Beyond its visual beauty, Coco resonates because of its story. The film strikes an emotional chord by reminding us of the importance of remembering those who came before us, and it delivers some of Pixar’s most powerful and tear-inducing moments.      ...

28 Days Later - A Classic Horror Film  Rating - 8/10 "Hello? Hello? Is anyone there?"      28 Days Later is one of those rare horror films that reinvents its genre while staying deeply unsettling from start to finish. Danny Boyle’s vision of a post-apocalyptic London overrun by rage-infected humans is both terrifying and strangely beautiful in its bleakness. The film’s opening alone, with Cillian Murphy wandering through an empty city, sets a tone of isolation and dread that never quite lets up.      What makes this movie stand out is its atmosphere. The way the camera moves, the grainy and raw visuals, and the haunting score all create an environment that feels real and immediate. It is not just about jump scares or gore; it is about the fear of losing civilization and the humanity within us. The cast delivers strong performances, with Cillian Murphy and Naomie Harris giving the story an emotional center that keeps it grounded amid the chaos. ...

 Avengers Endgame - An Epic Finale Rating - 8/10 "Avengers Assemble."      Avengers Endgame is the kind of cinematic event that does not come around often. As the epic conclusion to over a decade of storytelling in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it delivers on nearly every front fans could hope for. The emotional weight, the sense of finality, and the sheer scale of the story make it an unforgettable experience. From its quieter moments of reflection to its explosive third act, the film balances character-driven drama with thrilling action in a way that feels earned.      One of the biggest strengths of Endgame is how it treats its characters. This is a movie about closure as much as it is about battles. The time travel element allows fans to revisit key moments from the MCU while providing some incredible payoffs for long-running arcs. There are moments of fan service that feel rewarding rather than cheap, and the final battle sequence is one of th...

IT - No Clowning Around Rating - 8/10 "You'll float too."      IT (2017) is a strong and often unsettling adaptation of Stephen King’s classic novel. It brings the terror of Pennywise the Dancing Clown to a modern audience with sharp visuals, effective scares, and a cast of young actors who carry the heart of the story. The bond between the Losers' Club feels genuine, and their chemistry helps ground the horror in something much more human, the struggles of growing up and facing your deepest fears.      Bill Skarsgård’s take on Pennywise is haunting and unique, giving the character an eerie mix of playfulness and menace. The film does a great job of building tension, using both practical effects and CGI to create disturbing imagery that sticks with you long after the credits roll. The coming-of-age elements are some of the strongest parts, making the scares feel more impactful because you care about the kids at the center of it all.      ...

Captain Marvel - Just Fine, but only Necessary for Endgame Rating - 6/10 "Higher, further, faster, baby."      Captain Marvel is an important entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, giving audiences their first full look at Carol Danvers and setting the stage for her role in the events to come. The movie does not deserve the excessive hate it received online, much of which came from people unwilling to give it a fair chance. At its core, this is a solid superhero origin story that introduces a powerful new character while exploring themes of identity, strength, and belonging.      Brie Larson delivers a capable performance as Carol Danvers, balancing determination with moments of levity, and her chemistry with Samuel L. Jackson’s younger Nick Fury adds a welcome buddy-cop feel to parts of the movie. The 1990s setting provides some fun nostalgia, from Blockbuster Video to the soundtrack, and the inclusion of the Skrulls adds an interesting layer to the sto...

The Black Phone  - Good Horror Acting Done Right Rating - 7/10 "Would you like to see what I made you?"      The Black Phone is a tense and unsettling horror film that blends supernatural elements with a grounded, gritty story of survival. Directed by Scott Derrickson, the movie follows Finney, a young boy kidnapped by a sadistic figure known as The Grabber, as he begins to receive mysterious calls from a disconnected phone that may hold the key to his escape.      What stands out most is the atmosphere. The film nails its 1970s setting, from the dimly lit neighborhoods to the sense of unease that lingers in every scene. The cinematography and sound design work together to build a constant tension, never letting you feel comfortable even in the quieter moments.      The performances are strong across the board. Mason Thames gives a convincing portrayal of fear and resilience as Finney, while Madeleine McGraw brings heart and grit to ...

Paul Blart: Mall Cop Rating - 3/10 "Safety never takes a holiday."      Paul Blart: Mall Cop is one of those comedies that is hard to take seriously but still manages to stick in your memory. The premise follows Paul Blart, a well-meaning but bumbling mall security guard, as he stumbles his way into stopping a heist. On paper, it is a clear attempt at a family-friendly version of Die Hard , set in a shopping mall and packed with slapstick antics.      The humor leans almost entirely on cheap fat jokes and physical gags, many of which feel tired even for the time of its release. Kevin James gives it his all, and while his commitment to the role is admirable, the material rarely rises above low-effort comedy. The villains are forgettable, the action is bland, and the story feels like a patchwork of better movies strung together with predictable beats.      And yet, despite its flaws, there is something oddly nostalgic about Paul Blart: Mall...

Ant-Man and The Wasp - A Fun Little Heist Rating - 7/10  "Do you guys just put the word quantum in front of everything?"      Ant-Man and the Wasp is a lighthearted and entertaining entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe that delivers plenty of charm, fun action, and creative uses of its shrinking and growing technology. Set after the events of Captain America: Civil War and leading into the larger events of Infinity War , this film serves as a more contained story that focuses on family, redemption, and teamwork.      Paul Rudd once again shines as Scott Lang, bringing his natural comedic timing and likability to the forefront. Evangeline Lilly gets much more time to showcase Hope van Dyne, stepping fully into her role as the Wasp with confidence and skill. Their dynamic is one of the film’s biggest strengths, creating a partnership that is both playful and heartfelt.      The action sequences are clever and full of visual creativi...

Shrek Forever After  - Are We Done Yet? Rating - 6/10 "You know what the best part of today is? I got the day all to myself."      Shrek Forever After serves as the fourth chapter in the beloved franchise, and while it does bring some fresh ideas to the table, it does not quite reach the charm or energy of its earlier installments. The story explores a “what if” scenario where Shrek makes a deal that alters his world, sending him into an alternate version of Far Far Away. This concept opens the door for new dynamics and a slightly darker tone, but it also feels like the series is beginning to stretch itself thin.      The returning characters are still fun to watch, with Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz bringing their familiar energy to Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona. There are moments of heart and humor, and Rumpelstiltskin works well enough as a villain, though he lacks the same memorable presence as earlier antagonists like Fairy Godmother or...

Avengers: Infinity War - The Culmination of the MCU Rating - 9/10 "Perfectly balanced, as all things should be."      Avengers: Infinity War is the kind of cinematic event that only comes around once in a generation, and it delivers nearly everything fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been waiting for. From the opening scene, it throws you headfirst into the action and rarely lets up, creating a fast-paced, high-stakes experience that feels like the culmination of a decade of interconnected storytelling.      The film’s scale is massive, yet it never loses sight of its characters. Nearly every hero from across the MCU gets a moment to shine, whether it is Iron Man’s quick thinking, Doctor Strange’s mystic mastery, or Spider-Man’s youthful determination. Despite juggling such a large ensemble, the movie manages to keep the action coherent and the story engaging, moving fluidly from one corner of the universe to another without ever feeling bloate...

Knives Out - A Fresh New Murder Mystery Rating - 9/10 "I suspect foul play."      Knives Out is a brilliant and refreshing take on the classic whodunit, expertly crafted by Rian Johnson. From the very start, the film draws you in with its sharp wit, layered mystery, and a tone that balances suspense with playful humor. It is both a modern homage to the genre and a reinvention, offering twists that feel fresh while still respecting the timeless structure of a murder mystery.      The cast is a standout feature, with an all-star lineup delivering fantastic performances across the board. Daniel Craig shines as the eccentric detective Benoit Blanc, bringing a unique charm and quirk to the role that makes him instantly memorable. Ana de Armas serves as the heart of the story, while Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, and the rest of the ensemble each bring their characters to life with distinct personalities and motives that keep you guessing until the very end. ...

Beauty and the Beast - A True Disney Fairytale Rating - 10/10 "Be our guest!"      Beauty and the Beast is a landmark in animation and storytelling, delivering a magical and timeless experience that has enchanted audiences for generations. From the very beginning, the film draws you into a world of romance, wonder, and unforgettable charm. The animation is breathtaking, with every frame carefully crafted to bring the castle, the enchanted objects, and the surrounding village to life in vivid detail.      The characters are truly memorable. Belle stands out as one of Disney’s most iconic heroines, intelligent and compassionate while yearning for something more beyond her small-town life. The Beast is layered and complex, evolving from a figure of fear into one of vulnerability and growth. The supporting cast, including Lumière, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and Gaston, each leave a lasting impression and contribute to the film’s warm and lively atmosphere. ...

 Black Panther - A Culturally Rich New Entry to the MCU Rating - 8/10 "Wakanda Forever!"      Black Panther stands as one of the most culturally significant entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, bringing a fresh perspective and a unique sense of identity to the superhero genre. Ryan Coogler delivers a story filled with rich themes of heritage, responsibility, and what it means to lead. The world-building is a triumph, making Wakanda feel like a living, breathing place full of history and future potential.      The characters are a major strength. Chadwick Boseman gives a commanding yet deeply human performance as T’Challa, balancing the weight of a king with the heart of a hero. Michael B. Jordan as Killmonger is a standout villain, driven by pain and ideology rather than simple malice, making him one of the most layered antagonists in the Marvel franchise. The supporting cast, including Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, and Letitia Wright, all bring...

Us - Peele Strikes Again with Brilliant Social Commentary and Horror Rating - 8/10   "We are Americans."      Us is a gripping and unsettling psychological horror film that cements Jordan Peele as one of the most creative voices in modern cinema. The movie crafts an eerie and thought-provoking story about identity, duality, and the hidden darkness within society. From its chilling opening to its haunting finale, the tension never truly lets go, keeping you on edge throughout.      The performances are exceptional, with Lupita Nyong’o delivering one of her most memorable roles to date. She manages to create two distinct and equally compelling characters, bringing both vulnerability and menace to the screen. Winston Duke adds depth and humor as the supportive yet slightly awkward father, while the rest of the cast helps build a believable and tense family dynamic that grounds the film’s strange events.      Visually, Us is striking. Pe...

Thor: Ragnarok - All Hail the god of Thunder Rating - 9/10 "What were you the god of again?"      Thor: Ragnarok bursts onto the screen with an energy and style that completely reinvigorates the Thor series. Under the direction of Taika Waititi, the story takes a bold and colorful turn, embracing its cosmic setting while delivering a much-needed injection of humor and personality. The narrative feels tighter and more confident than its predecessors, giving Thor a real chance to shine both as a god of thunder and as a character with depth.      The comedy is one of the film’s strongest suits, and it never feels out of place with the vibrant tone. Chris Hemsworth delivers a charismatic and often hilarious performance, proving he can handle both the serious and the ridiculous sides of the character. Tom Hiddleston as Loki continues to add charm and unpredictability, while the introduction of Valkyrie and Korg brings fresh dynamics that enhance the adventure....

The Nightmare Before Christmas - A Stop-Motion Classic Rating - 9/10 "Just because I cannot see it, doesn’t mean I can’t believe it!"      The Nightmare Before Christmas is a timeless animated classic that blends gothic charm with heartwarming holiday spirit. The stop-motion animation is stunning, giving every character and scene a tangible, handcrafted feel that makes the world of Halloween Town and Christmas Town come alive. The film’s visual style remains iconic even decades after its release, and it continues to set the bar for what creative animation can achieve.      The voice cast is excellent, with Chris Sarandon and Danny Elfman bringing Jack Skellington to life through both voice acting and unforgettable songs. Catherine O’Hara delivers a heartfelt and memorable performance as Sally, and the supporting cast adds just the right amount of quirky energy to make this world feel full and vibrant. Speaking of songs, Elfman’s musical score is one of ...

Coraline - A Perfect Blend of Beauty and Horror Rating - 9/10 "I’m your other mother."      Coraline is a stunning stop-motion animated film that blends beauty and terror in a way few movies dare to attempt. From its very first frames, the animation stands out as a visual marvel. Every detail, from the eerie corridors of the Other World to the unsettling movements of its inhabitants, is meticulously crafted and feels alive. The result is a darkly enchanting experience that both children and adults can appreciate, though its horror elements make it particularly chilling for younger viewers.      The voice cast delivers exceptional performances, bringing depth and personality to each character. Dakota Fanning captures Coraline’s mix of curiosity and defiance perfectly, while Teri Hatcher gives a haunting duality to her roles as the caring mother and the sinister Other Mother. Paired with an atmospheric musical score, the movie builds tension and mood at e...

Spider-Man: Homecoming - A Fresh Reboot of the Classic Web-Head Rating - 8/10  "I'm nothing without the suit!"      Spider-Man: Homecoming swings into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a fun, fresh take on the beloved character. Tom Holland shines as Peter Parker, bringing youthful energy and a relatable awkwardness that feels true to the heart of Spider-Man. The film does a great job balancing superhero action with the everyday struggles of high school life, creating a tone that feels lighter and more personal compared to many of its Marvel peers.      One of the film’s biggest strengths is its supporting cast, with Ned quickly stealing scenes as Peter’s loyal and hilarious best friend. Their chemistry adds a layer of charm that helps make this version of Spider-Man stand out. The action sequences are inventive and lively, perfectly capturing the character’s agility and cleverness, while the presence of Tony Stark as a mentor adds an interesting ...

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - Fun Enough, but not Necessary Rating - 6/10 "Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!"      Beetlejuice Beetlejuice attempts to bring back the chaotic energy and spooky charm of the original classic, but it struggles to recapture the same magic. The film revisits the strange and macabre world of the afterlife with familiar faces and a few new ones, yet it never quite reaches the creativity or staying power of its predecessor.      The performances are serviceable, with some cast members clearly having fun slipping back into their roles, and the visual design remains as quirky and offbeat as you would hope. There are moments where the humor lands and glimpses of the twisted charm that made the original so iconic, but they are fleeting rather than consistent.      One of the biggest issues is how forgettable it feels overall. The plot is thin, leaning on nostalgia more than crafting something fresh, and the new char...