Weekend Film Reviews: Exploring the Latest Releases
As the weekend rolls in, cinephiles are spoiled for choice with several new releases hitting the big screen. This weekend we spotlight three highly anticipated films: Despicable Me 4, MaXXXine, and Space Cadet. Each film offers a unique experience, catering to a diverse audience, but the reviews suggest varying levels of success.
Despicable Me 4: More of the Same?
In Despicable Me 4, Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig return to voice the beloved characters, Gru and Lucy. However, critics are expressing mixed feelings about the latest installment.
Christy Lemire notes, > “There’s nothing cohesive going on here. It’s a bunch of different ideas. It’s multiple movies at once and yet also feels completely airless.” While there are moments of laughter, particularly involving the minions—who remain the true stars of the franchise—many feel that the film lacks depth. Alonso Duralde adds that the new superhero twist doesn’t elevate the comedy: > “The superhero minion thing… is not funny or clever or anything cool.”
The charm of the minions may carry the film but may not be enough to captivate audiences looking for a more integrated plot.
Gru and Lucy return in Despicable Me 4.
MaXXXine: A Stylish Descent into Chaos
Meanwhile, MaXXXine, the third installment in Ti West’s horror series, tells the story of adult film star Maxine Minx, played by Mia Goth. Critics praise its visual style, with Lemire remarking on its gritty depiction of 1980s Los Angeles: > “It is grimy, it is sleazy. It is neon signs from peep shows, washing the streets and lurid colors.” However, as the narrative unfolds, the film risks losing some of the potential drama. Lemire continues, “This is my least favorite of these three movies because it squelches the thing about Mia Goth that is so exciting as a screen presence.”
Duralde appreciates the film’s contextual backdrop of the Satanic Panic of the ’80s but feels it ultimately doesn’t deliver enough for an ambitious character like Maxine.
An intense moment from MaXXXine highlighting its horror elements.
Space Cadet: Lighthearted Escapism
For audiences seeking a lighter fare, Space Cadet, starring Emma Roberts, offers a charming escape. The film centers around a party girl aspiring to be an astronaut, and while it doesn’t leave a lasting impression, it provides some delightful moments.
Lemire calls it “pleasant as a diversion” and notes that while it won’t be unforgettable, it offers a light-hearted watch. Duralde points out the standout performance of Poppy Liu, calling it fluff but acknowledges its potential for inspiring younger audiences: > “If you’re looking for media that encourages young girls to study STEM…you could do worse than this.”
Join the journey of ambition in Space Cadet.
Beverly Hills Cop Returns: Axel Foley Lives On
After 40 years, Eddie Murphy suits up again as Axel Foley in Beverly Hills Cop. This revival not only revisits the character we all know but also leans into the reflections of time skipped. Duralde expresses surprise at the effectiveness of the film: > “I was shocked that this movie really works. It is the Top Gun: Maverick of action comedy sequels.”
The thrilling sequences, highlighted by a shootout on Wilshire Boulevard, create an exhilarating experience, leaving some wishing it could have made it to theaters rather than a Netflix release.
Eddie Murphy returns as Axel Foley in the latest adventure.
Conclusion
This weekend’s selections offer a mix of experiences, from animated mischief to horror thrills, and nostalgic comedy. While there are standout moments in each film, viewer expectations may vary widely. Undoubtedly, as the summer draws on, audiences are invited to explore their cinematic preferences.
Cinephiles should approach these new titles with an open mind, ready to embrace the laughter, horror, or simply enjoy some lighthearted entertainment as the season unfolds.
