As the weekend approaches, movie enthusiasts can look forward to a delightful selection of new releases that cater to every cinematic taste. From a star-studded supernatural comedy based on Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion ride to a gripping psychological thriller led by the incomparable Nicolas Cage, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Tiffany Haddish, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Owen Wilson bring their talents to the world of the supernatural in the Haunted Mansion adaptation, while Joel Kinnaman faces off against an unhinged antagonist portrayed by Cage in the intense thriller. Additionally, the masses will be thrilled by the release of an Australian horror film that captured audiences’ attention at the Sundance Film Festival, and Apple TV+ presents a true-life comedy about the Beanie Babies craze starring Zach Galifianakis and Elizabeth Banks. Whether you’re seeking laughter, chills, or heart-pounding suspense, this weekend’s movie choices have got you covered. Get ready for a captivating cinematic experience that will leave you entertained and enthralled.
Haunted Mansion
In the delightfully spooky supernatural comedy “Haunted Mansion,” a refreshing take on the classic Disney ride, viewers are in for a treat that surpasses the 2003 Eddie Murphy film. The story revolves around a single mom, portrayed by the talented Rosario Dawson, who moves with her son into a charming yet creaky New Orleans manor. Little did they know that the house comes with some unexpected phantom roommates who were mysteriously absent from the Zillow ad. Enter a group of entertaining paranormal experts, brought to life by Owen Wilson, Tiffany Haddish, Danny DeVito, and the standout performance of LaKeith Stanfield, forming a ghostly ensemble that makes this film a gateway horror treat for curious young viewers. With a perfect blend of humor and thrills, “Haunted Mansion” promises to be an entertaining and captivating experience for audiences of all ages.
Talk to Me
In the chilling horror film “Talk to Me,” we follow the story of teenage Mia, portrayed by the talented Sophie Wilde, who finds herself seeking solace on the anniversary of her mother’s death. In her search for an escape, Mia stumbles upon a group of partygoers who engage in a bizarre ritual using an embalmed hand to channel spirits into bodies and capture these encounters on viral videos for online fame. However, as Mia becomes intrigued and bends the rules of the game, she unknowingly opens the door to terrifying consequences. Confronted by a hauntingly familiar face, Mia and her friends’ lives take a ghastly turn, leading them on a terrifying journey that blends old-school frights with the modern fears of the TikTok generation. “Talk to Me” is a spine-chilling and unforgettable cinematic experience that skillfully weaves together classic horror elements with the eerie implications of social media fame.
Susie Searches
In “Susie Searches,” Kiersey Clemons delivers a standout performance as the introverted college student, Susie. Struggling with her true-crime podcast’s lack of popularity, Susie’s life takes a dramatic turn when a fellow classmate and social influencer, portrayed by Alex Wolff, mysteriously disappears. Driven by her desire for recognition and admiration, she embarks on an investigation to find him, which leads to unexpected and challenging obstacles. Throughout the darkly comic whodunit, Clemons portrays Susie with remarkable versatility, effortlessly transitioning from adorable awkwardness to gut-wrenching paranoia. Her portrayal of the complex character captivates audiences, making “Susie Searches” an engaging and thrilling watch.
The Beanie Bubble
“The Beanie Bubble” presents a stroke of brilliance in its casting, as Zach Galifianakis takes on the role of Ty Warner, the enigmatic mastermind behind the Beanie Baby craze that swept the late 1990s and early 2000s. This comedic biopic delves into the fascinating story of Warner’s journey. However, the film also shines a spotlight on the pivotal roles played by three remarkable women in his life. Elizabeth Banks portrays the ex-partner who, along with the quirky Warner, founded a toy company. Geraldine Viswanathan takes on the role of the online marketing guru, contributing significantly to the success of Beanie Babies. Sarah Snook plays the role of a single mother who becomes a love interest to Warner and whose imaginative children become an integral part of the Beanie Baby history. “The Beanie Bubble” promises to be an engaging and entertaining exploration of the cultural phenomenon that captivated a generation.
The Unknown Country
Before Lily Gladstone takes on her highly anticipated Hollywood breakthrough opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in “Killers of the Flower Moon” later this year, audiences can catch her in the captivating drama “The Unknown Country.” Drawing comparisons to the acclaimed “Nomadland,” Gladstone’s performance as Tana is both poignant and compelling. After the passing of her grandmother, Tana embarks on a journey from Minnesota to South Dakota to reconnect with her Oglala Lakota family. Along the way, she finds herself detouring towards Texas, leading to meaningful encounters and experiences. The film’s sprawling cinematography and thoughtful character studies, which include real people within a fictional narrative, make “The Unknown Country” a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. Audiences are sure to be captivated by Gladstone’s portrayal and the film’s exploration of family, identity, and self-discovery.
Happiness for Beginners
In “Happiness for Beginners,” Ellie Kemper, known for her roles in “The Office” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” takes on the lead in a rom-com that unfortunately falls short of expectations. Kemper plays Helen, a divorced schoolteacher seeking a fresh start in life. In an attempt to reset her life, she decides to enroll in a wilderness survival course. However, her plans take an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Jake, her brother’s ruggedly handsome best friend portrayed by Luke Grimes from “Yellowstone.” As they navigate through forest mishaps and clash in personalities, a peculiar sense of melancholy permeates the story. Despite the lackluster plot, Ben Cook’s portrayal of the group’s tightly wound instructor manages to keep the film somewhat watchable.
Sympathy for the Devil
In “Sympathy for the Devil,” Nicolas Cage adds another eccentric and unforgettable role to his repertoire. With a perfect blend of nervous energy and captivating charm, Cage portrays an enigmatic and armed individual who unexpectedly enters the car of an expectant father, played by Joel Kinnaman, in a Las Vegas hospital garage. Taking the driver hostage at gunpoint, they embark on a gripping road trip that gradually unveils deep truths about each man’s past and present. Despite the film’s middling thriller premise, Cage’s performance elevates it to new heights of intensity and madness. Even in the seemingly mundane act of sweetening coffee, Cage infuses it with a mesmerizing level of unpredictability. “Sympathy for the Devil” is a riveting cinematic experience, showcasing Cage’s ability to turn an ordinary thriller into a tour de force of compelling storytelling. You can catch the film in theaters or stream it on platforms like Apple TV, Vudu, and Amazon.