Film Clips

Madagascar (PG) — Certainly a nice enough movie that children ages 4 to 10 will enjoy, and one that parents might get a few chuckles out of it, too. It suffers, however, from the same predicament that many other recent animated features also share — its supporting characters are more interesting than the “stars” of the film. It’s the penguin mob and the Malagasy lemurs that provide most of the genuinely funny moments. (Reviewed May 27)

Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (PG-13) — While little of what happens in this chapter comes as a surprise, from its outset — beginning with a full blown battle sequence — Lucas gives his audience little opportunity to catch their breath in this nearly two and a half hour finale. John Williams’ stirring Wagnerian score, which both compliments and perhaps even magnifies the mythic proportions of the story and the visually arresting special effects. All of these elements draw together to weave a modern fable that sets a high watermark for 21st century filmmaking. (Reviewed May 20)

Unleashed (R) — Gritty, brooding cinematography almost becomes a character itself in this martial arts film, but it is eventually muted by the surprising moments of tenderness and humor Jet Li’s character shares with his new “family.” The result is a film that will please action film fans and can also be appreciated by their reluctant theater companions. (Reviewed May 13)

House of Wax (R) — As long as you set aside any expectation that “House of Wax” is a faithful remake of Andre De Toth’s 1953 3-D horror film, you might find this 2005 version tolerable. Or not. It has all the conventions of the genre in place, but it’s not particularly compelling or inventive. Take this one in as a matinee — and not because you’ll be afraid to walk out to your car after an evening showing. (Reviewed May 6)