kevin_robbins

I recently watched Southside with You (2016) on Tubi. The storyline follows Barack, a first-year Harvard Law student working a summer internship at a law firm, who invites a colleague named Michelle to join him at a community rally on the South Side of Chicago. What begins as two coworkers attending an event slowly evolves into something more-whether Michelle wants it to or not.

This picture is written and directed by Richard Tanne (Chemical Hearts) in his directorial debut, and stars Tika Sumpter (Sonic the Hedgehog), Parker Sawyers (Don't Hang Out), and TayLar (Heist 88).

The film does a solid job portraying Chicago, the characters' family dynamics, and how their backgrounds shape their worldviews. While the overall arc is predictable, the conversations and smaller moments feel fresh and engaging. The depiction of the South Side community is authentic, and Michelle's personal and professional struggles are well captured. The speech scene stands out as a highlight, though the movie theater twist feels a bit too convenient. Still, the love story is engaging and holds your attention throughout.

In conclusion, Southside with You is a unique and enjoyable romance film that's worth a watch. I'd give it a 6/10.

I caught an advance screening of Weapons (2025) tonight. The storyline follows a town in shock after an entire elementary school class mysteriously vanishes one night, after all the children suddenly run out of their homes. The blame falls on the teacher, who becomes desperate to clear her name-but she has no idea where to begin. Maybe she should start with the one student who didn't go missing...

This picture is written and directed by Zach Cregger (Barbarian) and stars Julia Garner (Ozark), Josh Brolin (No Country for Old Men), Amy Madigan (Streets of Fire), Benedict Wong (Doctor Strange), and Justin Long (Jeepers Creepers).

Weapons is a unique and gripping addition to the horror genre, evoking the tone of both Hereditary and The Children. The acting is phenomenal-every cast member delivers a grounded, emotionally authentic performance. The story unfolds in a Pulp Fiction-style structure, allowing the audience to piece everything together from different characters' perspectives.

The horror builds slowly and methodically, but once it kicks in, it really kicks in. The gore is intense, and a few scenes even brought Drag Me to Hell to mind. The villain is top-tier, and the central concept is executed with precision. Standout moments-especially the kitchen and gas station scenes-are packed with tension and shot beautifully. The camerawork throughout is exceptional, particularly in the climax, and even everyday settings like the liquor store are filmed with eerie familiarity. There's a cloud of mystery hanging over the film, and as the pieces finally click into place, the ending lands perfectly.

In conclusion, Weapons is everything you want it to be-methodical, well-written, and even better executed. I'd give it an 8.5/10 and strongly recommend it.

I recently rewatched Another 48 Hrs. (1990) on Tubi. The storyline follows Jack Cates, who's on the trail of a drug dealer known as "The Ice Man." But every time he gets close, the case slips through his fingers. When a suspect is found at a crime scene carrying a picture of Reggie Hammond, it becomes clear the two will need to team up again. Problem is, Reggie owes some dangerous people money and has no interest in helping Cates-at least not at first. But ready or not, the hijinks are about to ensue once more.

This picture is directed by Walter Hill (Red Heat) and stars Eddie Murphy (Coming to America), Nick Nolte (Warrior), Brion James (Blade Runner), Kevin Tighe (Road House), and Tisha Campbell (Martin).

The film has that classic Walter Hill feel-gritty characters, sharp performances, a killer soundtrack, and a great mix of humor and action. The chemistry between Nolte and Murphy is as strong as ever, with witty banter, clever zingers, and some slapstick moments that land well. The bar fight is a standout, as is the scene at Goodwill. The villains are surprisingly underrated-ruthless, intense, and they keep the tension alive until the final shootout, which is expertly executed with great use of smoke and atmosphere.

In conclusion, Another 48 Hrs. Is an elite entry in the buddy-cop genre and an absolute must-see. I'd give it an 8.5/10 and strongly recommend it.