Three Entertaining Films

Posted on Sep 12, 2019 by Missy Chapman  | Comments (0)

In the film “Us”, an endearing American family is pitted against a terrifying and uncanny opponent: doppelgängers of themselves. It is an exquisitely crafted film that works on two levels: it delivers two hours of entertainment for those looking for a chilling movie. In addition, it provides plenty of mental stimulation long after the movie has ended. Rated R.

In the new “Hellboy” film, Hellboy is caught between the worlds of the supernatural and human, where he must battle an ancient sorceress bent on revenge.

David Harbour makes Hellboy his own, which is tough considering the actor previously in the role (Ron Pearlman), this version of Hellboy is unique to Harbour and the current story. It is well acted, with incredible practical effects, and the kind of violence audiences familiar with the original comic would expect. Hellboy's strength has always been in its huge cosmology and it’s fan base.  Rated R.

“Breakthrough” is adapted from the 2017 nonfiction novel  by Joyce Smith called “The Impossible” and based on an actual incident that occurred in 2015. “Breakthrough” tells the story of John Smith, a 14-year-old St. Charles, Missouri boy who is playing with two friends on the frozen surface of nearby Lake Sainte Louise when they fall through the ice, plunging them underwater. While his friends are rescued, John becomes trapped, and sinks to the bottom.

Chrissy Metz makes a persuasive transition to the big screen with her appearance as the real-life Smith. As Pastor John Noble, Topher Grace creates another impressive characterization in his career as one of the most busy and eclectic actors in motion pictures. His most memorable quote from the movie is “Patient died, mother prayed, patient came back to life.”

 Although some of the film’s moments are reminiscent of a Hallmark movie, its good intentions balance out the cringe-worthy. The film sends an inspiring message about the power of prayer; it also lightly touches on survivor’s guilt, stubbornness and the difficulties that come with doubt.

A memorable aspect of “Breakthrough” is the idea that God is where you find him. It takes a miracle story with a faith-based message and makes it universal. Rated PG.