Score: B+
Directed by Daniels (Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert)
Starring Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan
Running time: 139 minutes
Rate R
This is one of the strangest, most unique films I've seen in a long time - particularly in a movie theater. On the surface, it's just your run-of-the-mill, numbingly complex parallel universe sci-fi story. But in fact, it's more focused on the characters, led by Michelle Yeoh's desperate laundromat owner, Evelyn, who is at a breaking point in her relationships with husband Waymond (Ke Huy Quan-Short Round from Indiana Jones!) and daughter Joy (the film's most entertaining actor, Stephanie Hsu). The mechanics of the sci-fi world are barely explained - probably for the best, though you feel like you're about to fly off the roller coaster several times. Fortunately, there is an absurd sense of humor throughout the film to keep it light, highlighted by strange physical "movements" required to universe "hop" and Evelyn's appalled but earnest early reactions to the craziness she finds herself thrown into. By the end, there is enough development of characters and relationships to create some touching moments, though to me, the sheer fantastical, dream-like quality of the (many) settings prevented a full acceptance. Still, if you're looking for something different, look no further. This is entertaining and worth a watch, especially in a theater.
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Score: B
Directed by David Yates
Starring Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, Mads Mikkelsen, Dan Fogler
Running time: 142 minutes
Rated PG-13
Although the magic has largely dissipated in the Fantastic Beasts series of films, based in the world of Harry Potter, there is still an entertaining time to be had. To me, the films highlight just how important the Hogwarts school of magic setting was to the success of the books, as well as the strength of its central three characters. The Secrets of Dumbledore continues the FB saga's exploration of the evil Grindelwald's rise, simultaneous with Dumbledore's prime. FB does have some fun elements; I enjoy most of the titular magical creatures, and even more, the Muggle Jacob is the highlight of the series (Fogler is always excellent in the role). But the central story and conflict is too similar to Voldemort, with a not-too-subtle nod toward real-world parallels. I will say, though, that this third installment marks a significant improvement on part two. The central plot is a more suitably magic-driven one, and while there is plenty of action, it is more thoughtful and creative, and less mindlessly violent than the previous film. In the end, though, while Redmayne's Newt is fun, he's still much more suited as a supporting player; he's no Harry.
***
These two films wrapped up the spring film season in the movie theater for me; two very different films indeed. I hope to see more films of the type that these two represent overall. For Everything Everywhere All At Once, it was a - major - change of pace, something both thoughtful and entertaining. I don't think I agree with the critics' 97% approval on Rotten Tomatoes, but it is certainly good - and worth a rewatch, for sure. But I also look forward to the more familiar worlds of various franchises, represented in The Secrets of Dumbledore. In particular, I'm excited for Marvel's summer offerings via Doctor Strange and Thor sequels. The year in movies has been uneven so far, so I'm hoping for a strong summer ahead!
* By https://a24films.com/films/everything-everywhere-all-at-once, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=69511486
*By http://www.impawards.com/2022/fantastic_beasts_the_secrets_of_dumbledore_ver21.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70190605
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