"Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" is like watching a high-octane battle between ambition and execution, with George Miller at the helm steering through the post-apocalyptic wasteland. The film delves into the origins of Furiosa, played by Alyla Browne and Anya Taylor-Joy, as she navigates through divine punishment, lunatic prophets, and a wild array of motorized chaos. While the action sequences are electrifying and visually stunning, the narrative meanders in fits and starts with pretentious chapter structures that lack the grit and gravitas of its predecessor "Mad Max: Fury Road." With Chris Hemsworth's gonzo portrayal of Wasteland warlord Dementus adding eccentricity to the mix, "Furiosa" delivers mind-blowing set pieces but struggles to maintain emotional depth amidst its frenetic pace. Despite some lapses in clarity and overreliance on CG effects, Miller's meticulous attention to detail shines through in every frame as he weaves a tapestry of mythic proportions tinged with both ridiculousness and sublimity. In this chaotic symphony of vehicular warfare and revenge-driven quests, "Furiosa" ultimately revs up its engines for a ride that's equal parts exhilarating spectacle and missed opportunities.

"The Garfield Movie" is like watching your favorite lasagna being served with a side of stale jokes and forced references. While the film initially promises a charming origin story and classic Disney-esque moments, it quickly devolves into uninspired action comedy that feels longer than Garfield's naps. The lazy meta references and attempts at humor fall flat, making the film more of a snooze-fest than a cat-nap delight. With lackluster animation and colorless vocal work, this version of Garfield lacks the attitude that made him iconic. Despite some mildly funny moments and nods to film history for cinephile parents, "The Garfield Movie" ends up feeling like a half-hearted attempt to capture the essence of a beloved character while missing the mark entirely. This big-screen adaptation may entertain younger viewers but leaves older audiences craving something more substantial than this meow-saster-piece. Rating: PG (Pretty Groan-worthy) Runtime: Feels longer than waiting for lasagna in the oven Playing: In theaters near you (proceed with caution)

In Richard Linklater's "Hit Man," Glen Powell shines as Gary Johnson, a philosophy professor turned pretend hitman in a quirky comedy that blurs identities and explores the psychology of performance. Set in New Orleans, the film cleverly mixes humor with moments of depth as Gary navigates his double life with charm and wit. With a nod to New Orleans' distinctive charm and colorful locales, Linklater crafts a story that is both lighthearted and subtly thought-provoking. Powell's portrayal of Gary/Ron is both entertaining and nuanced, showcasing the malleability of identity and the power of acting not just as an art form but as an integral part of everyday life. As Gary gets entangled in a web of lies and love with Madison (Adria Arjona), the stakes rise, leading to comedic yet smartly crafted sequences that highlight Linklater's skill at blending humor with deeper themes. "Hit Man" may not be your typical contract killer movie; instead, it offers an amusing take on self-discovery through performance, making it a delightful addition to Linklater's diverse filmography. Like a slapstick spy caper meets psychological exploration, this film proves that even in pretending, there can be truth—and plenty of laughs along the way. If you're looking for a blend of wit, whimsy, and wisdom wrapped up in one entertaining package set against the backdrop of New Orleans' unique charm – look no further than Richard Linklater's "Hit Man."

"Kidnapped" is like a grand opera of historical injustice set in the tumultuous late 1800s, where the clash between tradition and reform plays out in a riveting melodrama. Marco Bellocchio deftly weaves together the story of Edgardo Mortara, a Jewish boy forcibly converted to Catholicism, with meticulous attention to period details and a stellar cast. From the poignant performances by Enea Sala and Leonardo Maltese as Edgardo to Barbara Ronchi's portrayal of his mother's unwavering love, every moment resonates with emotion. Bellocchio's film skillfully navigates the complexities of faith, power dynamics within the Catholic Church, and familial bonds strained by religious dogma. The visual richness captured by DP Francesco Di Giacomo transports you to 19th-century Italy's opulent settings while underscoring the emotional turmoil faced by Edgardo and his family. With dramatic flair and unflinching grit, "Kidnapped" immerses you in a world where personal convictions clash with institutional authority, culminating in a gut-wrenching finale that blurs the lines between theater and reality. Bellocchio cleverly infuses moments of dark humor amidst solemn themes, creating an engaging narrative that leaves a lasting impact on audiences. In this cinematic tour de force marred only slightly by pacing issues and occasional narrative missteps, "Kidnapped" shines as a compelling exploration of historical events wrapped in exquisite craftsmanship. It's a film that commands attention through its blend of artistry and raw emotion—a captivating journey into an era defined by moral dilemmas that still resonate today.

In "Sight," director Andrew Hyatt delivers a predominantly predictable yet respectful biopic based on the inspirational true story of Dr. Ming Wang, a Chinese immigrant eye surgeon in Nashville. The film meanders through Wang's past in China during the Cultural Revolution and his journey to America, where he overcomes various challenges to become a renowned doctor. Despite its formulaic storytelling and occasional flat dialogue, the movie finds moments of emotional depth, particularly in Wang's quest to help young Kajal regain her sight. Terry Chen shines as Dr. Wang, capturing both his determination and emotional struggles, while Greg Kinnear provides solid support as his colleague Bartnovsky. Although "Sight" may not leave a lasting impression cinematically, it effectively conveys themes of faith, resilience, and finding light amidst darkness—making it a heartwarming tale that resonates with audiences seeking an uplifting narrative.